Fact 9: Aggressive Behavior Can Indicate Unmet Needs
Aggressive behavior can often signal unmet needs in individuals with dementia. Due to cognitive decline, it can be challenging for these individuals to articulate their needs, leading to frustration and sometimes aggression.
Identifying unmet needs involves closely observing the individual’s behaviors and routines, as well as understanding their past lifestyle and preferences. Caregivers may need to consider factors such as physical comfort, emotional well-being, hunger, thirst, or the need for social interaction.
Addressing these needs is not just crucial to mitigating aggressive behavior but also to improving the individual’s overall quality of life. It enables caregivers to provide person-centered care, which respects and responds to the individual’s unique experiences, preferences, and needs.(9)
