Repetitive questions or movements can be very distressing behaviours for carers to cope with. When possible, it may be necessary to simply walk away and take some time for yourself. Dementia victims may feel a sense of loss of control over their lives and actions and what may be a source of stress to the carer may be a source of comfort to the person. The purpose of a repeated question like "When is dinner?" may be reassurance that they will continue to be cared for and fed rather than a need for information. It may help to respond to the emotion and provide reassurance rather than information. It is important to remember that repetition is not done to annoy, although it may be an attention getting device. If this is the case, giving the person full attention and responding to their emotional needs may be the best way to break the cycle of repetition for a while.

Repetitive motions may be part of a person attempting to complete a task. Indeed, repetition may be necessary before the person can move on to the next step of the task. Repetitive motions like sticking the tongue in and out or tapping may indicate overmedication.

Vocal behaviours like screaming, talking incoherently or repetition of recognisable words may occur at late phases of the disease, often when the person is immobile. As with most disturbing behaviours, this may be a phase of the disease, but there are other factors that can contribute to the problem including

• inability to perform a task without repetition
• memory loss
• side effects of medications
• trying to convey a message like wanting to go to the toilet or feeling hungry
• trying to convey an emotion like fear or anxiety
• sensory overload - too much noise and activity
• unfamiliar people, places or sounds leading to feelings of insecurity
• change in routine
• response to stress or irritability of others or to arguments between others
• boredom or lack of stimulation