Final answer:
Individuals with dementia may resist hygiene or tasks due to physical challenges, cognitive decline, and psychological factors such as embarrassment from aging. Supportive measures, health monitoring, and cognitive rehabilitation can help manage these concerns.
Step-by-step explanation:
Resistance to hygiene or tasks in individuals with dementia, such as in the case of an elderly person suffering from Alzheimer's disease, is a multifaceted issue tied to both physical challenges and psychological factors. For example, Robert, an elderly individual with early onset Alzheimer's, showed resistance to tasks after being moved to a nursing home, which can be attributed not only to neurological conditions like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease that affect cognitive and motor functions, but also to transitions to new environments and the need for assistance with daily activities. The resistance can also stem from natural aging and the embarrassment or stigma associated with accepting help, as discussed in the context of U.S. seniors delaying COVID-19 vaccinations. Furthermore, cognitive rehabilitation, including the use of virtual reality for memory and daily living activities, is suggested as a mitigative approach to dementia. It's essential to provide support and monitor health aspects such as fluid intake and conduct laboratory tests to prevent complications like urinary tract infections, shown by the fever developed by Robert, highlighting the importance of proper hygiene to prevent skin infections and the progression of existing infections.