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Understanding anxiety helpsheet

Written by Dementia Support Australia | Jan 16, 2024 2:37:27 AM

Dementia can affect us all – especially when dealing with changes in day-to-day behaviour. These changes could be caused by many things including a person’s environment, health, or medication. One of the common changes is increased anxiety.

Anxiety is an intense worry or fear about the unfamiliar – and one of the more common behaviours seen in people living with dementia. When someone no longer feels familiar in their home environment, it can be extremely confusing and upsetting. It can make them nervous, tense, or clingy – perhaps even resulting in physical symptoms such as sweating or shaking.

The helpsheet has been created in collaboration with Professor Sue Kurrle, geriatrician, to assist carers and health care professionals to better identify and respond to the behaviours of someone experiencing anxiety.

To learn more, watch the video or download the helpsheet.