Disorientation

Guide On

Symptoms Management

Caregiving & guide on symptoms management
Disorientation

Common symptoms of dementia

Disorientation is a state in which a person with dementia will have difficulties knowing the time, place or person. Sometimes they will have trouble telling whether it was day or night, where they were sleeping and might even get lost in their own home.

Care tips

Place a calendar in a familiar place and cross off the date day by day. Note down special events such as birthdays and medical appointments.
Use a big clock with simple design and clear bold numbers.
Incorporate dates in the daily conversation (e.g. “Good morning, today is 29th of September”).
Open the window to allow sunlight in to help them distinguish day and night.
Encourage them to read the newspaper daily or listen to the news to keep in touch with the most recent events.

Place signage that is clear, easy to read and accompanied with easily recognizable symbols.

When their living environment changes, try to bring along things that could help trigger memories such as furniture etc. Caregivers should also take the person with dementia around the new place several times and allow some time for them to get familiar with the new environment.

Note: If the person with dementia has fever, common cold or influenza, their confusion may worsen. They should seek medical help as soon as possible.