As a progressive brain disorder, the effects of Alzheimer’s disease worsen over time. In addition to causing memory loss and confusion, this mental deterioration can also cause several behavioral issues—including anger and aggression. If you’re a senior caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, knowing how to navigate anger can be difficult. However, by following these tips, you can diffuse disruptive moods in a calm, caring manner.

Steps to Take When a Loved One With Alzheimer’s Gets Angry

Understand Why

When a person with Alzheimer’s gets upset for no clear reason, it’s common for senior caregivers to feel threatened—especially if the individual is making verbal or physical attacks. However, it’s important to understand that these emotions aren’t directed toward you or done out of spite; they are responses that occur as a result of cognitive decline, confusion, and discomfort. By keeping this fact in mind, it can be easier to respond to bouts of anger with compassion and patience.

Address Causes If Possible

Often, Alzheimer’s patients will become angry if there is an environmental circumstance or health problem that they cannot make sense of or fix on their own. When your loved one gets upset, see if you can identify the cause and provide a solution to put them at ease. For instance, if the individual hasn’t eaten in a while, they may be hungry and need a meal. If you’re an environment that is too loud or too bright, anger may be a sign that the individual should retreat to a calmer place. 

Simplify Communication

Since Alzheimer’s can make it difficult for individuals to process language and voice their own needs, they may become frustrated and angry if they can’t communicate with you. If your loved one gets angry when you talk to them or ask questions, consider expressing your thoughts in a simpler way that may be easier for them to understand.

Find Support

Although there are many ways to address and minimize bouts of anger in Alzheimer’s patients, it can still be a lot to handle if you’re a full-time senior caregiver. To ensure that your own emotional health is cared for, it’s important to take breaks and relax away from the situation. If possible, ask family and friends if they can help provide assistance from time-to-time. For more long-term support, it can also be beneficial to transition your loved one into a senior living facility that offers comprehensive nursing care.

If you’re a senior caregiver who needs additional support, the caring specialists at St. Charles Community in Covington, KY, can help. Serving the Greater Cincinnati area, this center offers a variety of senior resources and residences to tend to your loved one’s physical, mental, and emotional health. Staffed with nursing care professionals, this community is also qualified to address complex medical issues with compassion—including Alzheimer’s. Visit this senior living provider online or call (859) 331-3224 for more information about their services and amenities.