If a resident with dementia becomes upset when routines change, the NA should

If a resident with dementia becomes upset when routines change, the NA should

• A. Force the resident to continue the activity.
• B. Explain the changes and offer familiar alternatives.
• C. Ignore the situation and continue.
• D. Reprimand the resident.

Answer: (B)

Supporting predictability and safety for a resident with dementia when routines change is essential. The best approach is to explain the changes in simple terms and offer familiar activities as alternatives so the resident can maintain a sense of control and reassurance during the transition. Using a calm tone, validating the feelings, and involving the resident in choosing a familiar option helps reduce anxiety and resistance while still accommodating necessary changes. This approach respects the resident’s need for routine and familiar stimuli, which can ease distress and promote cooperation. Forcing the resident to continue an activity ignores their current distress and can heighten agitation. Ignoring the situation leaves the resident unsettled and may lead to escalation. Reprimanding is harmful and undermines trust and dignity, making future cooperation more difficult.

Supporting predictability and safety for a resident with dementia when routines change is essential. The best approach is to explain the changes in simple terms and offer familiar activities as alternatives so the resident can maintain a sense of control and reassurance during the transition. Using a calm tone, validating the feelings, and involving the resident in choosing a familiar option helps reduce anxiety and resistance while still accommodating necessary changes. This approach respects the resident’s need for routine and familiar stimuli, which can ease distress and promote cooperation.

Forcing the resident to continue an activity ignores their current distress and can heighten agitation. Ignoring the situation leaves the resident unsettled and may lead to escalation. Reprimanding is harmful and undermines trust and dignity, making future cooperation more difficult.