Providing essential care to individuals with dementia who resist help can be one of the most complex challenges in healthcare. This session examines why refusals happen, including the role of anosognosia (a true lack of awareness), and offers practical, person-centered strategies to reduce conflict while maintaining dignity. Through real-world examples and creative problem-solving approaches, participants will gain the tools and confidence to navigate even the most daunting care scenarios, because no matter how tricky things get, experienced caregivers know you can’t scare us that easily.

Learner Objectives:

1. Identify the appropriate expectations for what neurological neuropsychiatric symptoms care staff should have based on a person’s type and stage of dementia.
2. Examine the concepts of refusal of care and resistance during care as it relates to a person with dementia’s ability to make decisions.
3. List 5 steps of non-confrontational strategies to responding to refusal of care.
4. Apply communication and approach techniques to case studies to maximize compliance and motivation to participate.