One of the challenges of senior care is that as your loved one ages, the way their mind works can also change. Dementia is one of the major causes, but your loved one may also change in other ways. Here are some of the most common challenges families face and what you can do about them.

Tips to Help Seniors with Changing Behavior

1. Aggression

Patients with certain health conditions and changes in their brain function can get frustrated more easily. This can lead to outbursts and shouting, or even violence or threats. You can help them stay calm by maintaining a level composure, eliminating clutter in their environment, keeping their routine predictable, and providing means of entertainment. If they're upset and acting aggressive, and if apologizing and trying to calm them doesn't help, you may need to give them space. A professional senior care service may also be able to help.

2. Wandering

Memory loss can put your loved one at risk of getting lost if they leave home and can’t recall their way back. While being able to move around freely is part of the independent living style your loved one may be used to, if they present signs of memory loss, they may need to be prevented from leaving home or monitored when they do. Concealing related triggers — for example, hiding keys and shoes — will make it less likely that your loved one will have the impulse to go out. If your loved one needs to be kept inside, they should never be left at home alone.

3. Impulsive Behavior

Dementia can loosen inhibitions and cause seniors to act out in inappropriate ways. They might drive recklessly, make rude comments and ask personal questions, take items that aren't theirs, or even behave in sexually inappropriate ways. You may need to keep them from driving, warn others that your loved one might say awkward things, take your loved one aside when they exhibit this behavior, or distract them.

For senior care help to keep your loved one safe and comfortable through these changes, choose Visiting Angels. Serving Ocean County, NJ, they’re fully bonded, licensed, and insured, and they offer completely customizable senior care plans for each client. They provide companionship, basic daily care, specialized care for Alzheimer's and dementia, and medication monitoring. To get started, call (732) 240-1050 or go online to learn more about the process.