8 JULY 2025ELDERCARE REVIEWBy Tana McMillon, Regional Vice President of Operations, SilveradoUNDERSTANDING THE OVERLAP: BEHAVIORS IN MEMORY IMPAIRMENT VS DISCOMFORT AND PAINMemory impairment and cognitive decline often manifest with distinct behaviors that can be misinterpreted due to their overlap with symptoms of discomfort and pain. Understanding the nuances between these can significantly improve the quality of care and support provided to individuals experiencing these challenges.Memory Impairment and Cognitive Decline: Behavioral SymptomsMemory impairment and cognitive decline are frequently associated with disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Common behaviors observed in these conditions include:1. Wandering: Individuals may roam aimlessly as a result of disorientation or confusion.2. Agitation: They might exhibit restlessness, fidgeting, or repetitive movements due to frustration or inability to communicate.3. Withdrawal: Reduced social interactions or a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities can occur as a defense mechanism against cognitive strain.4. Sundowning: Increased confusion and agitation during late afternoon or evening, a common symptom in dementia patients.5. Verbal Outbursts: Repetitive questioning or nonsensical speech are often attempts at communication despite cognitive barriers.These behaviors are fundamentally rooted in the impairments caused by neurological decline. They are usually chronic and subtly progressive.Discomfort and Pain: Behavioral SymptomsOn the other hand, pain and discomfort, though sometimes similarly expressed, arise from physical conditions. Common behaviors related to pain include:1. Moaning or groaning: Vocal expressions of pain might be more frequent.2. Fidgeting or restlessness: Similar to agitation seen in cognitive decline but often happens suddenly and may coincide with specific movements or activities.3. Grimacing or crying: Facial expressions and tears can indicate acute pain.4. Guarding: Protecting a specific area of the body from touch or movement.Tana McMillon
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