Strategies derived from Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) to support people with dementia focus on understanding the reasons for behaviours and providing proactive, person-centred interventions.
Table of Contents
Key strategies include:
Functional Behaviour Assessment
Identify triggers and the function of behaviours by observing what happens before, during, and after incidents (using tools like A-B-C charts: Antecedent-Behaviour-Consequence).
Preventative Strategies
- Modify routines and environments to reduce confusion or distress (e.g., reduce noise, simplify surroundings, provide quiet areas).
- Adjust communication methods—speak clearly, use short sentences, and offer reassurance.
- Minimise overstimulation by limiting the number of staff present and maintaining consistency in caregivers.
Skill Development
Support the person to retain independence by encouraging participation in daily activities suited to their abilities.
Environmental Changes
- Remove or reduce environmental stressors (e.g., glare, loud noises).
- Ensure comfort and safety by adapting the physical space.
Support for Carers and Staff
- Provide practical guidance and training for family and professional carers to increase confidence and skills in managing behaviours.
- Encourage collaboration between staff, families, and specialists to create and review behaviour support plans.
Reactive Strategies
- Develop safe, respectful responses for when challenging behaviours occur, focusing on de-escalation and maintaining dignity.
Regular Review
- Behaviour support plans are dynamic and should be regularly updated as the person’s needs change.
Reduce Restrictive Practices
- Only consider restrictive interventions as a last resort, always aiming to minimise and eliminate their use through better support and environmental adaptation.
These strategies aim to enhance quality of life, reduce distress, and support the dignity and independence of people living with dementia, while also reducing carer stress and improving relationships.
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