09/10/2026
💡 Tips & Truths Thursday
TRUTH: “Behavior” is often communication.
When someone living with dementia becomes restless, refuses care, repeatedly tries to leave, calls out, or suddenly seems upset, it can be easy to focus on stopping the behavior.
But sometimes, the better question is:
“What might this person be trying to tell us?”
Dementia can make it difficult for someone to identify or communicate what they need.
Restlessness might mean I need to move.
Refusing care might mean I’m scared or I don’t understand.
Calling out might mean I’m lonely or looking for reassurance.
Agitation might mean I’m tired, uncomfortable, hungry, overwhelmed, or in pain.
💡 THE TIP: Get curious before getting corrective.
Pause. Look at the environment. Consider what happened just before the behavior began. Check for physical needs, discomfort, overstimulation, fear, boredom, or a need for connection.
We may not always understand the message immediately — but there is often a reason behind what we’re seeing.
At Johnson Creek Village, we believe dementia care isn’t simply about responding to a behavior.
It’s about understanding the person experiencing it. 💚