Alzheimer's Disease and Apathy

While apathy -- which can include listlessness and passivity -- may not seem like a behavior problem, it can be very troubling to care for someone with Alzheimer's who doesn't want to do anything. Even though your loved one is ill, it's important to keep her moving and active as much as possible in order to maintain physical health and to prevent depression. In fact, apathy is sometimes a symptom of depression, so persistent apathy should be reported to a physician. Try engaging your relative in enjoyable activities, but adapt them so she can participate at a level that is comfortable and not overwhelming. Even just a small amount of activity is better than none at all.

_Sources:

Behaviors: What causes dementia-related behavior like aggression, and how to respond. Alzheimer's Association. 2005. http://www.alz.org/national/documents/brochure_behaviors.pdf

Mace, N. L., & Rabins, P. V. (2006). The 36-hour day: A family guide to caring for people with Alzheimer's disease, other dementias, and memory loss in later life (4th ed.). Baltimore, MD: Johns Hopkins University Press.