Alzheimer’s Disease Dealing with Difficult Behavior

More than 16 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.
Caring for a loved one can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not without challenges. Understanding the cause of behavioral changes is critical for caregivers, families and friends. And, it’s helpful for caregivers to know how to manage behaviors that will allow them to provide safe and effective support and diffuse tense situations. These behaviors can include:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Aggression or anger
• Suspicion
• Hallucinations
• Pacing or wandering
It’s also not the fault of the person with Alzheimer’s or dementia. And, there is specialized support a caregiver can use to help keep a challenging behavior from escalating.
While there is no guaranteed approach that will work with every person or situation, there are some methods that can help caregivers manage trying times:
Staying calm – It’s not uncommon for caregivers to feel attacked or helpless when they are caring for someone exhibiting difficult behaviors. Remembering that it isn’t personal, and that it’s a symptom of the disease, can help caregivers manage their emotions and avoid contributing to tense or difficult situations. Arguing or reasoning can often escalate an outburst, so it’s necessary for caregivers to stay calm and supportive
Keeping a schedule – Seniors that suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias often find it reassuring to have a set schedule for meals, activities and daily tasks. Creating a schedule, and sticking to it as much as possible, can help prevent anxiety, confusion and anger.
Exercise – Exercise, with approval from a physician, is a great stress reliever for both seniors and caregivers. And, participating in activities together helps foster important emotional connections.
Participating in activities – Whether it’s an enjoyable hobby, household chore or physician-approved exercise, participating in joyful activities has shown to help manage challenging behaviors. For example, caregivers can ask for help folding laundry to ease anxiety or can play music or sing to calm someone feeling confused, angry or depressed.
Mindful communication – Caregivers shouldn’t underestimate the power of communication. Caregivers can use soothing tones, speak in a friendly way and make eye contact to convey normalcy, understanding and compassion. This can help seniors experiencing anxiety or frustration to calm themselves.
Myles McNamara is the owner of Comfort Keepers In-Home Care, and can be reached at (661) 287-4200