Triggers

Sometimes it is difficult for caregivers to understand why their loved one is reacting in a particular way, especially if they are not acting in a way that is consistent with their normal behaviors or with some of our societal norms. For caregivers, remember that the brain of a person with a dementing illness is being changed by the illness and they are not always acting out for maliciousness.

Triggers 101: Lesson for All Caregivers

What are triggers? A trigger can be anything that sets off an emotional response in a person with dementia. Most often we talk about triggers that affect people negatively, but there are also triggers that set off a positive emotion. Triggers can come from issues that are medical, physiological, or environmental.

Medical triggers happen when someone is sick; if they experience pain, fever, infections such as urinary tract infections or pneumonia. They can come from having an earache, a headache, toothache, bruises, sores or wounds, and even as a result of medication side effects.

Psychological triggers come when a person with dementia cannot express how they feel accurately. This may cause a person with dementia to express things non verbally if you ask an open – ended question such as, “how do you feel?”. If you ask, “do you have pain?” – a yes/no question, it is easier for them to respond accurately. By using techniques such as pointing, you may be able to pinpoint where a pain source is and intervene.

Environmental triggers can come when a person cannot process their surroundings. For example, when they are in new or unfamiliar surroundings or separated from their loved ones. Environmental triggers may come from a lack of a routine, too much stimulation from background noise, blinking lights or clutter, an uncomfortable room temperature (especially if a room is too cold for performing personal hygiene), or poorly fitting clothes or shoes. Other environmental triggers may include things like shiny floors; a person with dementia may perceive them as wet and be afraid they will fall. Mirrors, the person you are caring for might not recognize themselves in the mirror. Too little contrast can make it hard for a person with dementia to differentiate items in their environment. For example, a bathroom that is all white (white walls, sink, toilet) may make a person with dementia disoriented. Try getting a black toilet seat.

There are also positive triggers that can result from our interactions. Playing music, interacting with a pet or stuffed animal, enjoying a favorite food, looking at pictures of babies, or just a warm smile are all triggers that can get your loved one engaged and connected to you.

Speak with your healthcare provider if you are having trouble identifying triggers that impact your love one negatively. Being able to make simple changes to avoid unpleasant triggers can make a world of difference for you and your loved one.