Repetitive calling, such as repeating phrases or asking the same questions, is common in individuals with dementia. This behavior can present significant challenges and distress for caregivers, who may struggle to understand and manage it. These actions are symptoms of the underlying disease, not intentional efforts to cause frustration.
Understanding the Reasons Behind Repetitive Calling
Repetitive vocalizations in dementia often serve as a form of communication, even when the words themselves seem illogical or nonsensical. The brain changes associated with dementia impair a person’s ability to process new information and retain recent memories. This cognitive impairment means an individual may not remember having just asked a question or received an answer, leading to repeated inquiries.
Feelings of anxiety and fear frequently contribute to repetitive calling. Individuals with dementia can feel lost, confused, insecure, or disoriented within their environment or current situation. This distress can manifest as repetitive vocalizations as they seek reassurance or a sense of safety.
Unmet needs are another common driver for this behavior. These needs can be physical, such as hunger, thirst, pain, the need to use the restroom, or discomfort from clothing or temperature. Emotional needs, including loneliness, boredom, the desire for attention, validation, or feeling unsafe, can also prompt repetitive calling.
Communication difficulties play a significant role, as individuals may struggle to express their needs or thoughts clearly. This inability to communicate effectively can lead to frustration, resulting in repetitive attempts to convey a message. Sensory impairments like poor vision or hearing can also increase confusion and trigger calling out as the person tries to make sense of their surroundings.
Environmental factors, like overstimulation or boredom, can increase repetitive behaviors. Unfamiliar surroundings can also heighten confusion and anxiety. Some medications may have side effects that increase confusion or agitation, contributing to repetitive calling. Confusion about the time of day or night can also lead to increased vocalizations, especially during “sundowning” when behaviors escalate later in the day.
Effective Ways to Respond to Repetitive Calling
Responding to repetitive calling effectively involves understanding and addressing the underlying reasons for the behavior. Caregivers should attempt to identify what the person is trying to communicate, such as asking, “Are you cold?” or “Are you looking for something?”. Focusing on the emotion behind the vocalization, rather than just the words, can provide valuable insight.
Validating their feelings is a helpful approach; acknowledging their distress or confusion with phrases like “I understand you’re feeling anxious” or “It sounds like you need something” can be reassuring. Offering comfort and gently redirecting their attention to another activity or topic can help shift their focus. This might involve introducing a simple, engaging task, such as looking at a photo album or listening to music.
Simplifying communication is also beneficial. Using short, clear sentences and avoiding complex questions can reduce confusion. Non-verbal cues, such as a gentle touch, eye contact, and a calm demeanor, can convey reassurance more effectively than words alone. Creating a calming environment by reducing noise and ensuring comfortable temperatures can help alleviate agitation.
Establishing predictable daily routines can reduce anxiety and confusion for the individual. Regularly checking for physical discomforts or immediate needs ensures their comfort and safety. Caregivers should also recognize the importance of managing their own stress and seeking support, as coping with repetitive behaviors can be demanding.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
It is advisable to seek professional guidance when repetitive calling becomes significantly more frequent or intense, or if it is accompanied by other new concerning behaviors. A sudden change in behavior could indicate an underlying medical issue, such as an infection or pain, which requires immediate attention.
If the behavior causes significant distress to the individual with dementia or their caregiver, or if it begins to impact daily functioning, professional intervention is warranted. A medication review can assess if current medications contribute to the behavior or if new approaches could help manage agitation or anxiety.
Caregiver burnout is a serious concern, and professional help should be sought when caregivers feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or unable to cope. Support services, such as geriatricians, neurologists, dementia specialists, support groups, or respite care services, can provide valuable assistance. Consulting a doctor is also important to rule out other medical conditions that might contribute to increased confusion or agitation.