This sensitive and realistic video addresses several difficult behavior patterns of Alzheimer's patients. It demonstrates practical ways of dealing with behaviors such as wandering, angry outbursts, and delusions. For example, in the case of one patient who constantly paces around the facility, staff have developed methods of dressing him "on the run." Another patient is offered finger food while she wanders.

Since the behavior of people with Alzheimer's rarely conforms to the usual social standards, caregiving staff must instead adapt their expectations to each person's specific behavior patterns. And, since changing behaviors is no longer possible when the person can't understand or remember, caregivers learn to intervene only when truly necessary - when the patient or another resident may be harmed. Acceptance and the understanding that these residents' behaviors are the result of their disease is the key to success in providing effective and compassionate care. Topics covered in this program include behavior norms, behavior modification vs. behavior management, triggers to behavior challenges, and behavior changes.

Although not easy to watch at times, this video shows caring and concerned staff dealing with difficult situations in a practical manner and with a sense of humor. Though designed primarily for nursing home staff, it will be a valuable training and discussion tool for family caregivers as well.