Repeating the same things, notably, narratives and inquiries are one indicator of an aging brain. There are causes for this that are unrelated to progressive illnesses such as dementia, but recurrence may gnaw on anyone’s nerves in either circumstance. Even the most compassionate family caregivers struggle to keep their frustrations hidden at times. While there is no quick answer for this challenging natural consequence of aging, a shift in mindset and certain tried-and-true tactics can help you maintain your composure when you’re faced with loved ones repeating themselves all the time.
Listen
If your family member continues asking what day of the week it is, they may be trying to figure out if they’ve overlooked anything crucial, such as a routine task they’ve been doing for years. Asking the individual to tell you more about their concerns is a simple and direct strategy. When a person discusses more about their problems, it might also help them relax and feel less anxious.
Understand
Please recognize that mom or dad isn’t trying to bother you by reiterating events or queries. Because their brain is impaired, they can’t recall when their medical appointment is or remember that they’ve already told you what they want for dinner; so these occurrences keep happening. If you know why they are doing something over and over again, you will be able to better regulate your impatience.
Engage Them
If the repetitious questions grow more frequently, make sure mom or dad are engaged. Consistency and engagement can help with concentration. If you’re not familiar with the process, try cognitive exercises or tactile routines. You may also occupy them with music, a healthy treat, or try to shift the conversation’s focus by nonchalantly noting the weather forecast for the day.
Agree Supportively
Rather than redirecting a person to reality or challenging their distorted view of the world, why don’t you respect their perspective and lovingly ease whatever worry they may be feeling? What harm would it do to you if you accept with your grandparents that the grass is blue rather than arguing that it is green?
Making concessions have no bad consequences, and your parent doesn’t feel like they’re constantly incorrect. Just take into consideration that validation does not imply dismissing what your family member says to end the dialogue and move on.
Identify the Triggers
In many circumstances, an elderly person suffering from Alzheimer’s disease repeats themselves for a purpose. If you can identify potential catalysts and find a way to remedy them, you might be able to minimize the number of recurring requests.
If your folks, for example, keep asking when it’s time to go grocery shopping, something may be triggering the question. The grocery bag may be hanging empty somewhere in the kitchen. By relocating your stuff, you might be able to bypass the questioning process.
Caregivers might easily feel agitated by things like repetitive queries and that’s perfectly normal. Your immediate instinct may be to respond curtly or bluntly, but it’s important to remember that mom or dad isn’t trying to bother you or deliberately give you problems. It’s simpler to figure out why they’re reiterating something from that perspective and then reply in a helpful, accommodating manner.
