Suffering from Dementia or Alzheimer’s can be a very confusing and often frustrating process for your older loved one. If you have to provide care for your loved one with advanced dementia, you have probably dealt with an episode of aggression. Understanding how to help calm your loved one and de-escalate the situation is important. Here are a few tips for defusing potentially hostile or aggravated situations.
Where Aggression Stems From with Dementia
In advanced cases of Alzheimer’s or Dementia, the individual may have aggressive mood swings, quite similar to a child’s tantrum. It could involve verbal or physical aggression or both. Verbal frustration could include yelling, screaming, swearing, etc. Physical aggression may manifest as hitting, scratching, throwing items, etc. Generally, this is essentially a trauma response. For many individuals living with Dementia, the changes to their memory and environment can be frustrating and confusing. Sometimes, the person may struggle to communicate their confusion, which can upset them.
Finding the Cause of Aggression
While there isn’t always a direct cause for their behavior, it is often brought upon by something. It could be a reaction to confusing information, sitting in a way that is painful, or not being able to communicate needs. Many people who suffer from dementia can find it difficult to make others aware of their pain, and they can become angry or frustrated as a result. If you suspect the outburst is caused by pain, try to help address the source of it.
Levelheadedness Against Aggression
While it may be difficult in the moment, trying to maintain a calm and levelheaded demeanor in the face of their aggression can help de-escalate the situation. Be gentle, and speak calmly and softly. Do not try to match their energy. While communication may be difficult with your loved one in this state, many dementia patients can pick up on social cues. Keeping calm can help them return to a more placid state quicker.
Aggression as a Response to Stimuli
Their aggressive behavior may be in response to overstimulation. Consider turning off the TV, or lowering the volume. If there is a lot of conversation or commotion in the room, they may be struggling to follow everything that is happening. Flickering lights or lighting that is too bright or too dim can also elicit a reaction from them. Try to address the cause of the reaction, to help them be more comfortable in the situation. If the aggressive episodes continue, survey the scene for potential triggers or commonalities that may be what causes these outbursts.
Psychological Needs and Regressive Behavior
Your loved one’s outbursts may also be a psychological response to their situation. They may be frustrated over a lack of control or a loss in their ability to care for themselves. Many individuals with Dementia also suffer from depression or anxiety in the face of their condition.
Unfamiliar Environments
Changing environments and unfamiliar environments can negatively impact those with dementia. Many families choose to move loved ones with dementia in with them to help ensure that they are properly cared for. Unfortunately, a change in environment can also lead to frustration. While you do need to ensure that they have proper care, know that it can also lead to complications. Those who suffer from dementia can have a very difficult time adjusting to new living situations, such as a nursing home.
Additional Care At Home
If your loved one is struggling with Dementia or Alzheimer’s, consider getting them more help in the form of a home health aide or nurse. Having a trained medical professional to assist your loved one can be important to their care and overall health. Daily care assistance can make it easier for you to ensure that they are getting the help they need at home. A home health aide or in-home nurse will also be trained to handle aggressive outbursts from dementia patients and de-escalation tactics.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact us or call (718)-979-6900.
