Does Dementia Cause Apathy?

Apr 22, 2024 | Video

What Is Apathy in Dementia?

Individuals living with dementia often experience apathy. When someone’s become apathetic, they no longer show interest, enthusiasm or concern about their life. They may not notice or show any reaction to what’s going on around them. This is caused by damage to the frontal lobes of the brain – the area that controls motivation and the ability to plan or sequence actions.

Apathy is common with dementia – up to 70% of individuals with dementia experience it – but it can understandably still be a very upsetting experience for you and your family.

Watch the video below to learn the specific steps you can take to help your loved one work through a period of apathy.

Symptoms of Dementia-Related Apathy

  • A lack of energy or motivation to complete daily routine tasks
  • Reduced emotional response to both good and bad events
  • Social withdrawal
  • Diminished desire to participate in activities
  • A lack of concern about their own problems
  • Neglect of hygiene and/or self-care

How Do I Handle Dementia-Related Apathy?

Treatment for apathy is largely non-medical. Instead, focus on making lifestyle changes – provide your loved one with a consistent routine, encourage activities and make sure they’re supported.

Latest posts

Let’s be honest. Senior care has increasingly become a business. A formula really, with frequent changes in ownership and management, slick marketing pitches, poor care quality, high staff turnover, and a corporate approach that treats residents like a commodity. Sundara is locally owned and operated by a team focused on making a difference; a real difference that families and their loved ones can appreciate. We are not in the business of selling fancy real estate with hyped-up programs and spa services. We don’t provide care from a menu. We don’t have a slew of add-on fees or upcharges. What we do have is a team of owners that share a 12-year history together and unmatched levels of accountability, consistency and flexibility. We also operate from a simple care philosophy based on the premise that residents are a part of our family…NOT a commodity. We look forward to getting to know you and your family. Real care by real people for real families.
Request an Appointment
Let’s be honest. Senior care has increasingly become a business. A formula really, with frequent changes in ownership and management, slick marketing pitches, poor care quality, high staff turnover, and a corporate approach that treats residents like a commodity. Sundara is locally owned and operated by a team focused on making a difference; a real difference that families and their loved ones can appreciate. We are not in the business of selling fancy real estate with hyped-up programs and spa services. We don’t provide care from a menu. We don’t have a slew of add-on fees or upcharges. What we do have is a team of owners that share a 12-year history together and unmatched levels of accountability, consistency and flexibility. We also operate from a simple care philosophy based on the premise that residents are a part of our family…NOT a commodity. We look forward to getting to know you and your family. Real care by real people for real families.
Request an Appointment
Not Ready for Memory Care?
You give so much as a caregiver—let us support you! Sign up to get monthly resources to help make dementia care a little easier.
Not Ready for Memory Care
Caregivers, you are doing a great job! Let us help you with resources around caregiving, especially for those with dementia.
Update cookies preferences