Resisting Care

Description of Behavior

Resisting care, sometimes called combative with care, is a common behavior that is different from agitation or aggression. A person who is resisting care may pull away, attempt to leave or become agitated or aggressive while expressing resistance to care. An example of a person resisting care may be saying “Stop that, leave me alone!” and pulling away from staff during a specific care activity such as eating.

Why behavior might occur

Resistance towards care usually occurs during hands-on care activities such as mealtimes, bathing, toileting, or administering medications. It is thought that resistance occurs because the person does not understand the care activity or why it is important or because they are afraid or uncomfortable with how the activity is occurring.

How to approach a person who is resisting care

Strategies to try to reduce resistance to care

Strategies to try for Resistance to Eating

Strategies to try for Resistance to Bathing

Strategies to try for Resistance to Eating for someone who requires extensive assistance

Strategies to try for resistance to grooming activities: