5. Pain

A person may still feel pain in the later stages of dementia even though they may not be able to verbally communicate it. It’s important to consider pain as a cause of unusual behaviour and make sure that it is properly managed.

Many people in the later stages aren’t given enough pain medication and may be left in pain that could otherwise be treated.

Common causes of pain in people with dementia include urinary tract and other infections, constipation and other conditions (for example arthritis). If you think the person may be in pain, speak to a GP about medication. Also consider non drug approaches (such as change in position, movement or massage) that may help relieve the pain, albeit temporarily.