Alzheimer's Care in Chapel Hill and Durham: Anger and Aggression

Helen Antipov

Those with Alzheimer's here in Chapel Hill and Durham can start to show signs of anger and aggression. Those behaviors can be verbal or physical. Often they occur suddenly, with no apparent reason, or result from a frustrating situation. While aggression can be hard to cope with, understanding that the person with Alzheimer's or dementia is not acting this way on purpose can help.

Here is some information from ALZ.org.

Causes

Aggression can be caused by many factors including physical discomfort, environmental factors and poor communication. If the person with Alzheimer's is aggressive, consider what might be contributing to the change in behavior.

The main cause of behavioral symptoms associated with dementia is the progressive deterioration of brain cells, but other factors — such as pain — also can cause symptoms or make symptoms worse.

Physical discomfort

• Is the person able to let you know that he or she is experiencing physical pain? It is not uncommon for persons with Alzheimer's or other dementias to have urinary tract or other infections. Due to their loss of cognitive function, they are unable to articulate or identify the cause of physical discomfort and, therefore, may express it through physical aggression.
• Is the person tired because of inadequate rest or sleep?
• Are medications causing side effects? Side effects are especially likely to occur when individuals are taking multiple medications for several health conditions?

Treating Behavioral Symptoms

Anyone experiencing behavioral symptoms should receive a thorough medical checkup, especially when symptoms appear suddenly. Treatment depends on a careful diagnosis, determining possible causes and the types of behavior the person is experiencing.


Sudden change in behavior? UTI could be the cause.
 UTIs, or urinary tract infections, can cause changes in someone with Alzheimer's disease that you might never expect. The impact can be really profound. 

• Is the person overstimulated by loud noises, an overactive environment or physical clutter? Large crowds or being surrounded by unfamiliar people — even within one's own home — can be over-stimulating for a person with dementia.
• Does the person feel lost?
• Most people function better during a certain time of day; typically mornings are best. Consider the time of day when making appointments or scheduling activities. Choose a time when you know the person is most alert and best able to process new information or surroundings.

Poor communication

• Are your instructions simple and easy to understand?
• Are you asking too many questions or making too many statements at once?
• Is the person picking up on your own stress or irritability?

At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we understand the stress that caregivers go through. We are here to help you and give you the support you need when dealing with a loved one and Alzheimer's. Call us at 919-338-2044 or visit us at online.

Read more: http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-aggression-anger.asp#ixzz2obOym7MZ