Skip to content

Pain

How to spot and deal with pain in a person with dementia

A person with dementia may be in pain and be unable to tell you about it. Or they may be able to tell you they are uncomfortable, or something is hurting but be unable to say where or describe the nature of the pain.

Pain can be difficult to spot in a person with dementia. However, there are some ways to spot signs of pain.

See the planner

Create an online care plan

Login
Find out more
Conversations

Create an online care plan 2

Find out more
See the planner

Create an online care plan 3

Find out more

Here are a few possible indicators:

• Fidgeting or restlessness

• A change in gait

• Being suddenly hunched over

• Holding a part of their body

• Grimacing or frowning

• Calling out

• Being unusually aggressive during washing or dressing

• Anger

• Losing interest in food

There are also physical symptoms of pain that can be easier to spot. These include:

• Increased pulse

• Sweating or shivering

• Pale skin

• Swollen joints which may be caused by arthritis

What to do if you suspect the person is in pain

If you can, ask the person if they are in pain. They may be able to point to the area that hurts. Over time, as the condition progresses, they may be unable to tell you if they are in pain or where pain is located.   

You may be able to ask them specific questions such as, ‘Does it hurt here?’ but they may not be able to tell you.

Speak to the person’s GP if you suspect they are in pain. The GP may be able to prescribe moderate to mild analgesia.

Mild discomfort can sometimes be treated with massage, music therapy and aromatherapy, but don’t ignore the pain completely. Try to get to the bottom of the cause so that the appropriate treatment can be given.

Signs of dental pain

A person with dementia can be at risk of dental problems like tooth decay or tooth damage, due to difficulties brushing their teeth or forgetting to brush. Their teeth may become sensitive to hot or cold foods. Gum disease can also occur.

The person may not have seen the dentist for some time. In the early stages of their condition, they may be able to have regular dental checks, but this will become more of a challenge as their condition progresses. Encourage the person to see the dentist if they are in the earlier stages of the condition.

  • Refusing food, or looking uncomfortable when they do eat

  • Grimacing or wincing while brushing their teeth

  • A swollen face

  • Removing their dentures if they have them

  • Bad breath

If you do take the person to the dentist, sedation or general anaesthesia may be a good idea and the dentist may recommend it if they think it will be safer.


Sources:

https://www.dementiauk.org/information-and-support/health-advice/pain-and-dementia/

https://dementiahelpuk.com/coping-with-aggression-in-a-person-with-dementia/