Alzheimer’s: Dealing with Aggressive Behavior

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is not an easy task. Oftentimes, he or she may become angry or aggressive toward you as a caregiver. Before you assume the aggression is a result of something you’ve done, understand that there are various causes for these outbreaks and proper ways to respond.

Some of these causes include:

Physical Discomfort: Your loved one may be experiencing drowsiness, discomfort or pain due to medication side effects, infections or other illnesses. Often times, those who suffer from later stages of Alzheimer’s may not be able to articulate the source of the pain; therefore, they may express their discomfort through aggression.

Environmental Factors: Your loved one may feel overwhelmed by his or her surroundings. The environment may be full of loud noises, large crowds, and unfamiliar faces.

Poor Communication: Often times, complex questions or instructions may confuse and overwhelm someone suffering from Alzheimer’s, causing them to respond aggressively.

How to Respond to Aggression

Taking into consideration these possible causes of aggression, how might you respond to your loved one when he or she becomes upset?

First, do not become upset yourself. Take a moment to try to identify the cause of the aggression; is your loved one experiencing pain? Is he or she on any new medications? Respond to your loved one in a delicate tone of voice to create a calm environment, lessening the chances of further upsetting him or her.

Limit the distractions. Remove your loved one from unfamiliar surroundings or areas of high traffic. Consider replacing the activity you are currently engaged in with one that is more relaxing; for example, listening to music, playing a game or light exercise. Regular movement and light exercise can have positive effects on problem behaviors such as wandering, aggression, and difficulties sleeping.

Remaining calm and patient will help to ensure you and your loved one maintain a positive and healthy relationship.

Keep in mind that you are not alone. Sonas Home Health Care understands the difficulties families face when caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s. We refer loving caregivers to provide expert Alzheimer’s patient care, ranging from respite services to around-the-clock care.

If you feel that you need assistance caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, give us a call directly at (888) 592-5855 or visit our website to Request a Free In-Home Assessment.

Jillian Miller BSN, RN

Director of Nursing at Sonas Home Health Care

This blog was reviewed by Jillian Miller BSN, RN — Director of Nursing for Sonas Home Health Care’s Tampa Bay market — for clinical accuracy. Jillian Miller has been a nurse for 16 years — working primarily in pediatrics. She believes the best part of working with the pediatric population is when you see smiles from clients when you first enter the room. She loves seeing the difference you can make in families’ lives while providing the best care possible for them.