If you are the primary caregiver for a loved one with memory problems, dementia, or Alzheimer’s disease, you may face certain challenges. Seniors who are in the late stages of cognitive decline may experience aggressive behavior that may put you and your aging loved in a volatile situation. Here are some strategies for coping with aggression in your senior loved one who has dementia.
Use Distraction Techniques
Because of memory problems and other neurological deficits, seniors with dementia may be unsure of how to act in certain situations. They may become fearful, apprehensive, and even combative when asked to perform a new task, shower, or get dressed.
If your loved one starts showing signs of aggression, use distraction techniques such as playing his or her favorite songs, turning up the television volume, or offering a healthy snack. These strategies can help diffuse an unpleasant situation so that the person with dementia becomes less anxious.
Use Gentle Redirection
If distraction techniques fail to quell aggressive behavior, gently place your hand on your loved one’s shoulder or take him or her by the hand and lead the person into a different room in the house. Sometimes, all it takes to short-circuit negative behaviors in those with memory or cognitive problems is to get them out of the surroundings in which the aggression began.
If you feel overwhelmed by your loved one’s behavior, consider respite services at a local memory care facility near your home. The staff members at memory care facilities are experienced in caring for those with cognitive deficits and can engage your loved one in therapeutic programs and activities to help improve both mood and behavior.
If you want to know more about how a memory care center can help both you and your senior loved one, contact Regency Memory Care today.
