How to manage behaviours that challenge

There are a few golden rules in supporting people who display challenging behaviour. One is that happy people tend not to challenge. Find out what makes the person happy and make it happen more in their life, then you may find that the behaviour starts to disappear. Other things that can help are:

• Make sure the individual feels valued and listened to
• Where communication disorders exist, make sure the person has a method to communicate effectively
• Give the individual other ways of communicating a need
• Where necessary reduce the expectations of the individual
• Identify triggers or attitudes that provoke or maintain challenging behaviour
• Anticipate problems and take action e.g. by providing additional support, redirecting to another activity or reducing the noise level.

It is reasonable to expect that with assessment, communication techniques, Carer support and consistency, encouragement and teaching of new coping skills, behaviour can be managed effectively. It’s important to set realistic goals for the individual and aim to increase the person’s quality of life and minimise the impact of the behaviours.

If you would like more information call our Carer Support Line on 01463 723560 or email us on carers@connectingcarers.org.uk.