Living with dementia can bring unique challenges- not only for the person experiencing it, but also for their families and support networks. Behavioural changes such as agitation, confusion, or withdrawal are common and often arise as expressions of unmet needs or frustration rather than deliberate actions. This is where Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) plays a vital role.
At Liberty Behavioural Services, our goal is to help people living with dementia maintain dignity, independence, and emotional well-being through evidence-based, person-centred strategies.
What Is Positive Behaviour Support for Dementia?
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is an approach that looks beyond the behaviour itself to understand why it occurs. Instead of reacting to challenging behaviour, PBS aims to identify the triggers, motivations, and environmental factors behind it – and then create practical, compassionate strategies to support the individual more effectively.
For people living with dementia, PBS can help reduce distress, improve daily routines, and increase engagement in meaningful activities. It focuses on:
- Understanding the person’s history, communication style, and preferences
- Adjusting the environment to reduce confusion and overstimulation
- Supporting carers with consistent, gentle responses that build trust and predictability
Behavioural Strategies That Make a Difference
Liberty’s behaviour support plans for dementia are built around small, consistent changes that can have a big impact. Common PBS strategies include:
- Predictable routines: Creating structure helps reduce anxiety and confusion.
- Sensory adjustments: Minimising noise, improving lighting, and using familiar scents can calm and reorient the individual.
- Positive reinforcement: Recognising and rewarding moments of calm or connection helps sustain positive behaviour.
- Communication support: Using simple, clear language and visual prompts fosters understanding.
- Empowering choice: Encouraging autonomy in everyday decisions – like choosing clothes or meal options – enhances dignity and engagement.
These evidence-based strategies are always personalised. No two people with dementia experience the same journey, so Liberty’s behaviour support practitioners design each plan around the individual’s unique life story, strengths, and goals.
How PBS Improves Quality of Life
When implemented consistently, PBS can lead to meaningful improvements in wellbeing for both the individual and their carers. Benefits often include:
- Reduced behavioural distress such as aggression, wandering, or withdrawal
- Improved emotional regulation through clear communication and environmental stability
- Increased participation in activities that bring joy and familiarity
- Enhanced safety and independence through proactive planning and reduced triggers
- Better relationships between carers, families, and participants built on understanding and trust
In essence, Positive Behaviour Support replaces reaction with reflection – helping everyone involved move from managing behaviour to truly improving quality of life.
Dementia Behaviour Support Under the NDIS
For NDIS participants, PBS can be delivered as part of Improved Relationships or Capacity Building supports. Liberty’s registered behaviour support practitioners work in line with NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission standards, ensuring that all strategies are ethical, least restrictive, and fully aligned with participant goals.
This ensures that people living with dementia – and their families – receive tailored, consistent, and professional guidance to navigate behavioural changes with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Positive Behaviour Support isn’t about controlling behaviour – it’s about understanding people. For those living with dementia, this understanding can make every day feel calmer, safer, and more connected.
At Liberty Behavioural Services, we’re committed to helping individuals and their support networks thrive through compassionate, evidence-based care that prioritises dignity and wellbeing at every stage of life.
