How Staff In Memory Care Homes In South Valley, NM Kindly Handle Temper Tantrums By Residents With Dementia Or Alzheimer's

One of the greatest challenges for family and caretakers is managing the temper and aggressive behaviors in someone with dementia or Alzheimer's. There are many factors that may add to aggression, whether it is verbal or physical, and there are undoubtedly some things you can do to defuse the situation.

Aggressive behavior can come on abruptly, seemingly out of nowhere, and frequently worsens over time. A mother who has always been submissive and composed might suddenly lose her composure and erupt in anger. This is due to the fact that the behavior, which is frequently unconscious, is brought on by the brain's decline. Understanding what triggers rage and knowing how to react can help you deal with the situation more effectively. Aggression and anger brought on by dementia can be particularly difficult to manage.

Tips for Temper Tantrums Management in Dementia or Alzheimer’s Care

Team members of assisted living communities are trained and experienced in anger management. This article provides tips from experienced caregivers at the memory care home in South Valley, NM, on how they kindly handle temper tantrums by residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s. 

• Identify the immediate cause- Instead of concentrating on the behavior, consider what may have preceded the response that may have set it off.
• Ensure that pain doesn’t cause stress- A person with dementia may not even complain of pain but instead act out in rage when they are in pain, which can make them act aggressively.
• Focus on their feelings- Don't concentrate on the facts of what happened or what was said or done; instead, concentrate on the feelings and emotions conveyed.
• Stay calm- They are frequently more upset than anyone else because of the complexity and complication of their feelings. Give them encouraging and reassuring comments while remaining calm. Maintain a soft, slow speech.
• Reduce distractions- Make sure their surroundings aren't too exciting. Instead of assuming they will be able to adjust to surrounding distractions, this may require simplifying their living space and assisting them fit into it.
• Try a relaxing activity- Try engaging in a soothing activity to help calm the person down. You could play some soft, background music, offer to massage their back, or take a walk.
• Shift their focus- Change their focus from the situation that may have inadvertently prompted the aggressive reaction to another activity. This technique is similar to redirecting a child.
• Avoid using force- Unless the situation is critical and the person is endangering themselves or others, refrain from bodily restraining them at all. They typically become more irate as a result and end up doing more damage than good.

Additional Considerations

If the individual is safe and you are able to leave, do so. Then you can have some time to yourself. This can assist you in remaining composed, lowering your voice, and preventing the situation from getting out of hand.

Make sure that safety is the top priority at all times. If the individual is having trouble calming down, first ask for help from others, such as medical professionals. Never hesitate to dial 911 when an emergency arises. If you do dial 911, inform the operator that the individual is acting aggressively due to dementia.You don't have to deal with this situation alone. It can be extremely helpful to find assistance from the memory care home in South Valley, NM, for managing your loved one's dementia or Alzheimer's.