Why Do People with Dementia Hide Things?

Written by Nguyenjessica

Published on July 28 2025

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a journey of heart and hardship. One moment, they’re peaceful; the next, they’re lashing out—yelling, hitting, or throwing objects. It’s not them. It’s the disease. Violence in Alzheimer’s is often a cry for help from a mind lost in fog. This guide equips you with science-backed strategies to diffuse chaos, protect your loved one, and preserve your sanity. Let’s reclaim peace together.

Why Do People with Dementia Hide Things?

Key Points

Violence ≠ Malice: Aggression stems from unmet needs (pain, fear, confusion).
Safety First: Protect yourself and your loved one during outbursts.
Prevention > Reaction: Simple daily tweaks reduce triggers.
You’re Not Alone: Professional support exists—use it.

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Table of content

Why Alzheimer’s Patients Turn Violent: The Hidden Triggers

Immediate Response: Calming the Storm in 5 Steps

Long-Term Prevention: Building a Calmer World

When to Call Reinforcements: Professional Help Red Flags

Self-Care for Caregivers: Surviving the Trenches

Why Alzheimer’s Patients Turn Violent: The Hidden Triggers

Violence is almost always a reaction to distress. Common causes include:

Physical Pain: Undiagnosed infections (UTIs!), arthritis, or hunger.
Sensory Overload: Loud TV, crowded rooms, or harsh lighting.
Fear: Paranoia (“You’re a stranger stealing my things!”).
Communication Failure: Inability to say “I’m cold” or “I need the bathroom.”
Brain Changes: Disease progression damages impulse control.
💡 Insight: Think like a detective. Sudden aggression? Check for pain, environmental shifts, or routine disruptions first.

Immediate Response: Calming the Storm in 5 Steps

When rage erupts, act fast:

Stay Calm, Speak Softly

Lower your voice; avoid eye contact (can feel threatening).
Say: “You’re safe. I’m here to help.”
Create Space, Not Confrontation

Step back. Block objects they might throw without restraining them.
Turn off stimuli: TV, bright lights, multiple voices.
Validate, Don’t Correct

Never argue realities. If they insist “It’s 1945,” say:
“That’s a special year. Tell me about it.”

Distract and Redirect

Offer a comfort item: their favorite blanket, music, or a simple snack.
Safety Emergency Plan

If physical harm is imminent:
Move others (kids/pets) to safety.
Call 911 if needed—specify “dementia crisis” for trained responders.
⚠️ Never grab or shout—escalation risks injury to both.

Long-Term Prevention: Building a Calmer World

Outbursts decrease when you:

Routine is Sacred: Consistent meals/bedtimes anchor their world.
Simplify Spaces: Declutter rooms; label cabinets with pictures (“Socks Here”).
Medical Checks: Monitor for UTIs, dental pain, or medication side effects (e.g., benzodiazepines worsen confusion).
“Yes” Environments: Let small choices restore control:
“Do you want oatmeal or eggs?”
“Should we water the roses now or later?”

When to Call Reinforcements: Professional Help Red Flags

Seek help if:

Violence occurs daily or involves weapons.
Your loved one stops eating/sleeping due to agitation.
Caregiver burnout hits: anger, depression, or numbness.

Where to turn:

Neurologist: Adjust medications (e.g., SSRIs for chronic aggression).
Geriatric Psychiatrist: Specialized behavioral therapies.
Respite Care: Temporary facilities give you breathing room.

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Self-Care for Caregivers: Surviving the Trenches

You can’t pour from an empty cup:

Short Breaks: 10 minutes outside with coffee = reset.
Support Tribes: Join free online groups (Alz.org’s ALZConnected).
Therapy: Grief counseling for mourning the person “before Alzheimer’s.”
Emergency Script:
When guilt whispers “I’m failing,” say:
“I’m doing my best with an impossible job.”