We all experience anger at various times, letting off steam when we feel frustrated or threatened. However, in most cases, the feelings subside relatively quickly, and our emotions level off, which helps us achieve a calmer state.<\/p>\n
Alzheimer\u2019s disease and dementia<\/a> can dramatically increase the level of anger in older people due to the changes in the person\u2019s brain caused by the condition. As a family caregiver, you might feel helpless or upset when you find yourself on the other end of a traumatic verbal or physical outburst from an older loved one with dementia, especially if you\u2019re unsure about how to manage it.<\/p>\n Resolving the situation with caring and compassion is possible when you know how to de-escalate their anger and the root cause of those intense emotions.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.23.4″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbet_body_layout\u00a0\u00bb] Aggressive outbursts might seem as if they happen out of the blue, but there is often a legitimate yet unseen reason behind them.<\/p>\n For example, progressive cognitive conditions such as dementia can trigger episodes of confusion. A simple lost train of thought, becoming overwhelmed by too many choices, or a sudden change in their environment or routine can all cause a sudden, unexpected burst of anger.<\/p>\n Their condition can also exacerbate existing emotional states<\/a>, such as senses of loneliness, sadness, boredom, or loss, triggering an outburst. Overstimulation from a loud environment, background noise, or even conversation between others may bring about bouts of impatience and anger from your loved one.<\/p>\n The person may also be in physical pain or experiencing dizziness, nausea, exhaustion, or frustration that their condition has changed their ability to do simple physical tasks<\/a>.<\/p>\n In some cases, people with Alzheimer\u2019s disease or dementia experience difficulty expressing how they\u2019re feeling, potentially upsetting them to the point of lashing out.<\/p>\n Witnessing an episode of verbal or physical anger can be alarming, but a peaceful response rooted in love and empathy will help restore your environment to one of peace and calm. <\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.23.4″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb hover_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″ global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbet_body_layout\u00a0\u00bb sticky_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″] Understanding the root causes of anger in older people may help you predict what might trigger an episode and take steps to avoid it. However, there will likely still be bursts of anger that seemingly come out of nowhere.<\/p>\n Here are some tips that will help you de-escalate a situation when it arises:<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.24.3″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb hover_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″ global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbet_body_layout\u00a0\u00bb sticky_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″] Remain calm<\/strong><\/p>\n Your loved one may say or do things that appear to be attempts to hurt you physically or emotionally. Keep a cool head by reminding yourself that the disease is causing the outburst and your loved one isn\u2019t doing it on purpose. Avoid displaying distress, anger, or fear, as doing so may increase their level of agitation.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.24.3″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb hover_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″ global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbet_body_layout\u00a0\u00bb sticky_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″] Do not use physical contact<\/strong><\/p>\n Never respond to violence with physical force unless your safety or that of someone else is in danger. Striking, restraining, or using other physical means of controlling the person might make them angrier and more aggressive. <\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.24.3″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb hover_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″ global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbet_body_layout\u00a0\u00bb sticky_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″] Listen to them and be reassuraing<\/strong><\/p>\n Avoid the temptation to argue with them or be defensive. Listen to them with empathy and compassion and accept their anger and frustration. Always use a calm, soothing tone of voice when addressing the person without chastising or criticizing their behaviour. Let them know that you understand they\u2019re upset and that you\u2019re there to help. <\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.24.3″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb hover_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″ global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbet_body_layout\u00a0\u00bb sticky_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″] Determine and solve the trigger<\/strong><\/p>\n If you can identify what caused the outburst, you may be able to solve the trigger and stop the angry outburst. For example, turning down the volume on a too-loud radio, pulling down the blind on a window causing glare, or moving them to a calmer, more comfortable space might alleviate their frustration.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.24.3″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb hover_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″ global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbet_body_layout\u00a0\u00bb sticky_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″] Try redirection<\/strong><\/p>\n Redirection is a strategy used by many professional caregivers to redirect the person\u2019s attention to something more pleasant<\/a>. For example, if your loved one is upset because they can\u2019t find something, gently suggest you both look for it later and offer to do a puzzle or sing a song together. Changing focus can quickly transform a potentially dangerous situation into a joyful one.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.24.3″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb hover_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″ global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbet_body_layout\u00a0\u00bb sticky_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0″] Remove yourself from the situation<\/strong><\/p>\n If it is safe to do so, remove yourself from the room to give you both some time to calm down. This approach will make it easier to dispel their anger upon your return. However, we recommend not leaving them alone if there is a risk they will hurt themselves or someone else – don\u2019t hesitate to call 911 for assistance in cases where someone could get badly hurt.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.23.4″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbet_body_layout\u00a0\u00bb] Your loved one is living with a progressive cognitive condition that they cannot control. They may not even remember having an outburst, so once the situation is resolved, refrain from dwelling on it or bringing it up again. The best strategy is to learn from it so you can be further prepared should an angry outburst reoccur.<\/p>\n Remember, you don\u2019t have to go through this alone. The CareHop team is always ready to provide professional eldercare services<\/a> that support both you and your loved one when you need them.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.20.4″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbet_body_layout\u00a0\u00bb] CareHop specializes in providing safe, professional eldercare services, including on-demand Alzheimer\u2019s disease and dementia care<\/a>, that bring peace of mind to families who need support.<\/p>\n We also offer other in-home elder care services<\/a> such as homemaking and meal preparation<\/a>, personal care<\/a>, activities<\/a>, and casual companionship<\/a> that help ensure your loved one gets all the professional care they need.<\/p>\nWhat can trigger anger in people with Alzheimer\u2019s disease and dementia?<\/h2>\n
How to manage dementia-related anger in your older loved one<\/h2>\n
Quality in-home elder care services in Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Brampton<\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.20.4″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbet_body_layout\u00a0\u00bb]