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Glenn shares how flexible working arrangements and support from his managers enables him to continue working whilst prioritising his wife Helen's care.
Many people with dementia experience periods of restlessness. We explain why this might happen and how you can help.
Restlessness – including fidgeting, pacing and trying to leave the home – is common in people with dementia.
It can be upsetting for the person, especially if they are prevented from moving around, and for family members, who may in particular worry about the person’s safety.
Causes of restlessness in a person with dementia may include:
Sometimes, the person with dementia may get up and start pacing, which can be frustrating and upsetting for you both.
To support a person who is pacing:
A particular worry for many families is when the person with dementia wants to leave their home. This may happen if:
The following methods may help if the person with dementia is prone to trying to leave the house.
It’s important to make a plan in case the person with dementia succeeds in leaving their home alone. For example:
To speak to a dementia specialist Admiral Nurse about restlessness or any other aspect of dementia, please call our free Dementia Helpline on 0800 888 6678 (Monday-Friday 9am-9pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am-5pm, every day except 25th December), email helpline@dementiauk.org or you can also pre-book a phone or video appointment with an Admiral Nurse at a time to suit you.
Our virtual clinics give you the chance to discuss any questions or concerns with a dementia specialist Admiral Nurse by phone or video call, at a time that suits you.
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