Your Response to Dementia-Related Anger Matters

Many people who have dementia become angry, especially as the disease progresses. While this may not occur in the early stages of the disease for your elderly loved one, it could happen later on. It is important to know that your response to dementia-related anger matters. The way that you react when your elderly loved one becomes angry can determine the course of the rest of the day. It can determine the new dynamics of the relationship that you have with your elderly loved one, too. With this being said, there are some things to note about handling dementia-related anger.  

Remember Where the Anger is Coming From

One of the most important things for you to do when it comes to your elderly loved one’s anger is where it is coming from. Your elderly loved one isn’t necessarily angry at you. The dementia is affecting the way that they handle things. For instance, many people who have dementia aren’t able to express their feelings. This can make them angry. The next time your elderly loved one gets angry, try to remember what is causing the problem.  

No Arguing 

There is no arguing with someone that has dementia. If your elderly loved one gets angry, you can’t reason with them. You should reassure them and stay calm. The more you listen to what your elderly loved one is saying, the more you can understand their frustrations and concerns. When you are able to do this, you can start creating better situations with your elderly loved one. You may also be able to diffuse these angry outbursts easier, as well.  

Talking to Doctors 

If your elderly loved one is angry a lot of the time, you may want to talk to their doctors. There may be something else causing their anger. For instance, some people who have dementia may have a painful condition. However, since they can’t properly express their pain, they might get angry instead. If you or elder care providers are noticing your elderly loved one is getting angry, but you can’t figure out why, you should get an appointment for them. The doctor can help to figure out what is going on. 

Conclusion 

These are some of the things that you should know about your response to dementia-related anger. With this information, hopefully, you can start diffusing angry outbursts with your elderly loved one quicker. This information should also help you to know how to handle anger in your elderly loved one from this point forward, as well. If the angry outbursts are getting to be too much, you can have elder care providers step in your place, at least for the time being.  

 

If you or an aging loved-one is considering Elder Care in Natomas, CA please contact the caring staff at Aging Assistant today. (916) 897-4752 

 

Sources 

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/managing-personality-and-behavior-changes-alzheimers