It’s difficult for family caregivers when a senior parent with Alzheimer’s becomes aggressive or combative. When the parent you know suddenly is acting aggressively, being mean, shouting, or getting violent it’s unsettling. But as Alzheimer’s progresses it can cause seniors to act in violent or aggressive ways.

If you’re caring for a senior parent that has Alzheimer’s and they are getting more aggressive Alzheimer’s home care can help. Alzheimer’s home care is specialized care that takes into account the unique needs of seniors with Alzheimer’s. The care providers who work with seniors that have Alzheimer’s have training and experience so they know how to manage aggressive behavior with compassion and patience.

The most important thing family caregivers can do for seniors who are showing aggressive behavior is not to react out of anger. Instead, try these methods to manage aggressive or combative behavior:

Stay Calm and Be Patient

It’s difficult to keep your cool when your parent is screaming at you or trying to hit you. But you should not show any anger or frustration because that could just make the situation escalate. Instead, take deep breaths, speak in a soothing tone, and maintain a composed demeanor. Remember that the senior’s behavior is a result of their condition and not a personal attack. If you need to take a minute and step into another room to calm down and compose yourself do that.

Identify Triggers

Pay attention to patterns and situations that trigger aggressive behavior in the senior. Common triggers can include fatigue, hunger, pain, discomfort, unfamiliar environments, or changes in routine. By identifying these triggers, caregivers can take preventive measures and address potential issues proactively.

Maintain A Routine

Seniors with Alzheimer’s thrive on routine. A daily routine can provide a sense of stability and predictability for seniors with Alzheimer’s. Stick to regular meal times, daily activities, and bedtime routines. Familiarity can help reduce confusion and agitation. And that can reduce the chances that your senior parent will act aggressively or with hostility.

Create A Safe Environment

Create a safe living space for the senior to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries during moments of aggression. Remove any potential hazards, such as sharp objects or items that could be used to harm themselves or others. Install locks and alarms if necessary to prevent wandering, especially if you need to step away to calm yourself. That way your senior parent won’t be able to slip out while you are calming down.

Use Non-Verbal Communication

Seniors with Alzheimer’s may have difficulty understanding or processing verbal communication. Instead, use non-verbal cues, such as gestures and facial expressions, to convey your message. Maintain eye contact, offer a reassuring touch, and use simple, clear instructions. Gentle touches on the arm or can be soothing for seniors with Alzheimer’s who are confused.

Redirect and Distract

When you notice signs of escalating aggression, try to redirect the senior’s focus to a different activity or topic. Engaging them in a favorite hobby, showing them family photos, or playing calming music can be effective ways to distract from their feelings of agitation.

Validate Feelings

Aggressive behavior may be a result of the senior’s frustration or fear due to their cognitive decline. Validate their feelings and emotions, even if you cannot understand the exact cause of their distress. Let them know that you are there to support and care for them.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s home care in Allen, TX, contact the caring staff at HomeWell Care Services Plano TX  today. Call (469) 596-6500

HomeWell Care Services Plano TX is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Richardson, Garland, Little Elm, Prosper, and the surrounding areas.