Calming Seniors with Alzheimer’s

Those who have Alzheimer’s disease exhibit a range of behaviors. Aggression and agitation are two of the most troubling. These behaviors are difficult for both the sufferer and those who love them. For family members and caregivers, learning how to calm agitation and aggression becomes necessary.

It is important to note that older adults suffering from Alzheimer’s live in their own world. Understanding why a person becomes agitated or aggressive involves tapping into this world and having patience. Many people who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease need a memory care community to help them cope with the ever-changing emotions and behaviors they exhibit.

Remain Calm at All Times

During periods of problematic behavior, family members and caregivers need to remain calm. Although it becomes difficult not to engage in the same behavior, caregivers must ensure they keep a calm and reassuring tone in their voices. When providing dementia care, family members need to realize their loved ones cannot help their behavior. They are not intentionally causing distress. The person is feeling confused and cannot express themselves adequately.

Helpful Ways of Calming Agitation and Aggression With Alzheimer’s Disease

Knowing how to help spells of agitation and aggression will make life easier for Alzheimer’s patients and their loved ones. The following offer some steps individuals can take to help their loved one calm down and feel less agitated.

Music is beneficial for helping people calm down when they are aggressive or feeling agitated. Listening to music often takes people back to happier times and helps them relax. It is important to choose soothing music that will bring peace to a person’s mind.
Aromatherapy has also proven useful in helping people who are feeling agitated and aggressive. Studies have established that scents like lavender can calm agitated people. Lavender can also become beneficial in helping with sleep and reducing hallucinations. Lavender oil can be directly applied to the skin. A person can also use this oil in a diffuser for a broader application. Administrators in a Memory Care Community will often use lavender to help their residents feel calmer and less stressed.
Human touch brings a calming influence to a person who feels out of control. A soft back rub or even a touch on the hand can help relieve agitation. Touch also helps establish a bond between a person and their caregiver.
Pet therapy is also confirmed helpful in assisting people with Alzheimer’s disease. Having a pet to love helps senior citizens cope with the wide range of emotions and side effects they may experience. A small dog or cat would prove beneficial.
Maintaining routines is essential for all who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. When a person’s routine becomes disrupted, they are more likely to feel agitated and begin to act out in aggression. Keeping to a routine will help people remain focused.
Providing reassurance is also advantageous. Sometimes, all a person needs is quiet reassurance that they are okay. Telling the person they are safe and loved will often help them calm down.

The above steps can help bring calm to a person in distress. Alzheimer’s disease is a challenging condition to manage. Not only is it hard for the sufferer but also for everyone else involved.

While it is difficult for people to handle an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis, getting medical care from the very beginning helps. Taking a concerted approach to treatment and managing their therapy will assist Alzheimer’s sufferers with better control of their disease.

Always Check For Health Concerns

While aggression and agitation are often attributed to Alzheimer’s disease, there could be other reasons. It is important to rule out any health concerns that may be to blame. Reporting changes in behavior to the individual’s doctor will help discover the root cause.

Move Into a Residential Community

When a person is no longer safe at home and is experiencing frequent outbursts of agitation and aggression, they may need more comprehensive care. With memory care In Tacoma WA, individuals will receive the ongoing care they need to live as independently and safely as possible.

These communities give peace of mind to loved ones and Alzheimer’s sufferers. Family members will know their loved one is receiving the full care and assistance they need for day-to-day living. People who live in these communities are also able to receive help managing their diseases.

At Pioneer Place Memory Care Community, we are committed to providing compassionate care for our residents. We have built one of the most beautiful communities in the area, and we offer a myriad of options to help our residents with socialization.