If you are caring for a loved one in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease, you probably know that she make become more agitated and aggressive during certain parts of the day. If your loved one is agitated, this means that she seems restless and worried. She may not be able to settle down in a chair or go to sleep. Or, your loved one may eventually lash out at your verbally or even physically.
What Causes Agitation and Aggression in Alzheimer’s Patients?
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), agitation and aggression in these patients have a reason. When they occur, you as the caregiver need to try to understand why. If you can find out the causes, you may be able to curtail the problem. Some of the common problems that lead to Alzheimer’s agitation and aggression:
- Pain, stress or depression
- Not enough sleep
- Constipation
- Underwear is soiled
- Change in routine
- Feelings of loss, such as not being able to drive
- Too much confusion or noise in the room
- Being forced to do something she does not want, such as take a bath
- Feeling lonely and lacking contact with others
- Medicine interactions
First of all, if you see signs of aggression and agitation, do not ignore it! You want to deal with the cause before it gets worse. You may be able to get some help from her doctor. Have a medical examination performed to see if an underlying cause for the behavior can be discovered. Have her medication regimen examined to see if a drug interaction is causing aggressive behavior.
To cope with this problem in your loved one, please try these tips:
- Reassure your loved one in a calm voice. Try to show understanding why she is angry or afraid.
- Give your loved one as much control of her life as you safely can.
- Alzheimer’s patients have a hard time accepting change. Try to keep a regular routine for bathing, dressing and eating. Sometimes, your loved one may be having difficulty with a task, which leads to frustration. There are many helpful products that can help to make daily tasks easier. For example, Gripware High Sided Dishes and UBend It Bendable Eating Utensils help to make it easier for your loved one to eat.
- Build some quiet time into her day, as well as activities to keep her occupied.
- Keep well known objects and pictures around the house to make her feel more secure.
- Try to soothe her with music, walks or reading to her.
- Cut down on any noise and clutter in the room.
- When she goes into an aggressive or agitated cycle, try to distract her with food or a favorite object.
Also, remember that your worries could be affecting your relationship with your loved one. She may sense your own unease and worry. Try to slow down and relax when you are with your loved one.
