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REPETITIVE QUESTIONS

Reasons for Repetitive Questions
· Repetitive questions could be the person's effort to try to regain control, or the feeling of control, over an environment which is now confusing for them.

· Memory loss can create a strong feeling of insecurity for the person, causing them to fear situations that previously never worried them. Their repetitive questions may be a way to regain a sense of security and reassurance.

· Misinterpreting sights and sounds can cause anxiety and result in repetitive questions.

Strategies for Helping the Person to Remember
· Develop a daily routine and keep it as consistent as possible. This may help reduce confusion and agitation in the person and can be relied upon to prompt their memory rather than having to remember all the details themselves.

· Use written reminders on chalkboards or whiteboards with times of daily activities such as meals, for those who can still read. For those who can no longer read, try pictures in place of words, such as a picture of a toilet on the door so they can find the bathroom easier.

Strategies for Caregivers
· Keep a journal of repetitive behaviour, which may be helpful in determining the cause of certain actions. For example, if you notice that similar behaviour routinely occurs at the same time each day, by identifying this pattern you may be able to prevent repetitive behaviour before it begins.

· Remove objects that may be prompting repeated questions. For example, a coat and hat may cause the person to frequently ask when they are going out.

Important to Remember
· Respond to the emotion rather than the specific question. For example, reassuring the person you are going to prepare their meal may be more helpful than simply telling them the hour the meal will be served.

· Try to always use a calm voice when answering repeated questions - the person does not remember asking the question so reminding them they've already asked the question or speaking with anger or annoyance will be upsetting to the person. The person will also be aware of any non-verbal messages you are sending that may be contradicting the words you are using.

· Remind yourself that while the question being asked is repetitive to you, it is new information to the person. It is easy to think the question is purposeful or meant to annoy, but this is rarely, if ever, the case.

· Be sure to make time for yourself. It is easy to ignore or forget to take care of your own needs as the primary caregiver, but time away, even if only an hour, is beneficial not only for your well-being, but can also be beneficial for the person you are caring for as well. Sometimes, the reason for repetitive behaviour cannot be determined and therefore, it is essential for time apart in order to reenergize.

Research and compilation by: Karen McCrae, Volunteer
www.farmfreshcreative.ca

For more information about REPETITIVE BEHAVIOUR
contact the Alzheimer Society of Guelph-Wellington
519-836-7672

Copyright © 2002 Alzheimer Society of Guelph Wellington
Last modified: January 09, 2008