5 Tips To Handle Repetitive Questions From People With Dementia

We’ve all experienced repetitive questions or perseveration from an elderly with Alzheimer’s or some other type of memory loss.

• Where am I?
• Why did you bring me here?
• How do I get home?
• Who are you?
• Where are my parents/siblings/spouse?
• Why are you at my house?

All of these, when asked repetitively, is enough to drive you up the wall!

As a result, it is more important than ever for you not to give up and take the time to listen and show that you care. With that said, whether you are a caregiver or a family member responsible for taking care of an elderly member, there are various tips to take care of the elderly and ways to respond to

You may be able to respond the first few times politely, but after hearing the same thing a dozen times, it’s natural to get a little angry. However, you must understand that in most cases, the behavior of repetitive questions is because they’re feeling stressed, fearful, or anxious and need reassurance.

1. Try to identify the need behind the question

Sometimes, a patient will repeatedly ask the same question because they’re trying to get your attention or don’t feel heard. Other times, they may be asking because they’re scared or nervous about something. If you can figure out what’s causing them to ask repeatedly, you’ll have an easier time addressing their actual needs and helping them feel comfortable.

2. Don’t correct — redirect

If the elderly with dementia asks something repetitively, it’s tempting to offer a quick correction, like “You already asked me this,” or “I already told you.” But this is likely to cause confusion or frustration since they probably won’t understand why you’re saying this. Instead of correcting them on what they’ve already said, try redirecting their attention toward something else: “Let’s talk about [other topic].”

3. Try a different way of responding

For example, if they ask, “Where are my keys?” and you’ve already looked everywhere but can’t find them, try saying something like “They must be somewhere safe,” or “I’m sure we’ll find them later.” Your response can change depending on how you’re feeling at that moment — sometimes, you do want to reassure the elderly by telling.

4. Validate their feelings

It’s important not to dismiss or ignore their feelings, even if their question isn’t logical or seems repetitive to you. Validating or acknowledging how they feel will make them feel understood and supported, which can help reduce the need for repetition in some cases.

5. Answer promptly & patiently — but don’t give too much information

If your loved one asks about an upcoming visit from a grandchild, simply respond: “Yes, Jacob will be here tomorrow!”

Let them know what they need to know, and try not to go beyond that information — you don’t want to prompt more questions or cause confusion (and you want to avoid going down a rabbit hole every time they ask).

Conclusion

The redundant questions can be frustrating to both parties involved — the elderly suffer from frustration and confusion due to their inability to recall what they are inquiring about, and the caregiver is frustrated by having to repeat themselves again and again. Use the tips listed above to find a balance that works best for you and the one suffering. You can play some activities to build interests and abilities of a person with dementia can positively impact lives while reducing agitation and minimizing behavioral symptoms.