People with Alzheimer’s disease can act in different and unpredictable ways. It is important to remember that the person is not acting this way on purpose. Whatever the behavior, try to identify the cause and possible solution.
Bold behavior
Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may forget that they are married and begin to flirt or make inappropriate advances toward others.
When there is unusual, inappropriate behavior, try to distract the person with another activity or lead him or her into a private place. Avoid getting angry or laughing at the person.
Inappropriate dressing
The person may forget how to dress or may take clothes off at inappropriate times and in unusual settings. For example, a woman may remove a blouse or skirt simply because it is too tight or uncomfortable.
Help the person dress by laying out clothes in the order they need to be put on. Choose clothing that is simple and comfortable.
Shoplifting
The person with Alzheimer’s may not understand or remember that merchandise must be paid for. He or she may casually walk out of the store without paying — unaware of any wrongdoing.
Have your loved one carry a wallet-size card that states that he or she is memory-impaired. This may prevent the person with Alzheimer’s disease from feeling embarrassed (or arrested!).