If you’re dealing with a loved one who has dementia, we’re sure that you’ve already noticed the marked significant changes in his ability to think, communicate, and care for themselves. Perhaps at first, you may have wondered how your usually kind and gentle mom can suddenly become combative towards people. Before you look for Boynton Beach dementia facilities, here are some tips on how you can respond to aggression coming from a person with dementia:
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Keep your expectations realistic.
When your loved one starts to act aggressively, remember that this type of behavior is a normal symptom of dementia and that you shouldn’t take it personally. Accepting the fact that these episodes are bound to happen will reduce your tendency to be shocked when it does happen. If you keep your expectations realistic, your response will be calmer and you’ll become more supportive.
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Identify the cause.
Potential triggers need to be identified. For example, if it’s early evening and your loved one starts to yell at a room’s empty areas and telling people to get out, this could mean that the dim light is causing the shadows to appear in the corners of the room, making it seem like people are in the corner. To keep this from happening, turn on the lights when it starts to get dark outside.
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Check if they’re in pain.
Since a person with dementia couldn’t express their ideas when something is bothering them, pain or discomfort can cause them to resort to combative behavior. It’s important to check if they need their pain medication for existing conditions such as gout or arthritis or if they need to use the toilet.
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Calm the room quickly.
One of the most common triggers of aggressive dementia behavior is a busy or noisy environment. When your loved one starts to act out, quickly calm the room. You can do this by turning the TV off or asking people to leave the room.
Boynton Beach Dementia Care
Are you looking for a Boynton Beach dementia care facility? Contact Courtyard Gardens Senior Living at (561)568-4849 and learn more about our services!
