Middle Stage Dementia

Changes in behavior

Changes in behavior can be some of the most distressing for caregivers and family members. During the middle stages, people may experience depression, anxiety, irritability and repetitive behaviors. As the disease progresses, other changes may occur, including sleep changes, physical and verbal outbursts, and wandering.

Work with the caregiver and patient to help identify triggers and provide education on communication. Understanding what behaviors are common during this stage and how to assist the person with dementia can help.

Communication

As people with Alzheimer's gradually lose their ability to find words, express thoughts and follow conversations, they also have more difficulty understanding others. Communication changes during the middle stages include trouble finding the right word, repeating questions, losing the train of thought, reverting to a native language and relying on non-verbal communication. Educate the caregiver on how to improve communication by making simple changes, such as speaking slowly and distinctly in a gentle tone. If

Daily care needs

Eating, dressing and grooming will become more challenging as dementia progresses. This loss of independence and privacy can be a very difficult transition for the person with dementia and the caregiver. Encourage the caregiver to allow the patient to do as much as possible and look for ways to modify the activity or environment to reduce stress and optimize performance. Lots of tips are included in our ADL resources!

Here are some suggested activities and also see the resources on this site.

Activities of daily living tasks, such as folding laundry, washing dishes, sorting socks

Physical activities: Easy-to-follow fitness activities, dancing freely to familiar music, guided walks, balloon toss

Expressive activities: Simple creative arts instruction, watercolor painting, singalongs

Reminiscence: Flipping through photo albums, watching an old movie, interacting with a therapeutic doll/stuffed animal, aromatherapy