Self-Care is Essential When Dealing with Aggression
When someone with dementia gets aggressive, it can be a very stressful and emotionally draining experience. It is important to remember to take care of yourself and your own mental health first. Being present and available for the person with dementia is important, but so is taking breaks for yourself. Make sure to find time to relax and do something enjoyable, such as listening to music or reading a book. It is also important to reach out for help from family and friends if you need it.
Stay Calm and Manage the Situation
When someone with dementia gets aggressive, it is important to remain as calm as possible. Take slow, deep breaths and remind yourself that this is not the person’s fault- it is a symptom of the disease. It is also important to remember that the person may not be able to control their behavior. Try to stay out of the way if the person is physically aggressive. If they become verbally aggressive, it may be best to simply move away and not engage.
Understand the Cause of Aggressive Behavior
It is important to try to understand why the person is becoming aggressive. It could be a sign of pain, fear, frustration, or confusion. Try to think of any triggers that could be causing the aggression, such as loud noises or changes in routine. It can also help to try to distract the person with a calm activity, such as listening to music or looking at photos.
Create a Safe Environment
Creating a safe environment for the person with dementia is important for managing their aggression. There should be plenty of space for them to move around and plenty of places to retreat to if they need to be alone. Make sure that there are no items that could be used as weapons and keep the environment as calm and quiet as possible.
Be Mindful of Your Language and Tone
When speaking to someone with dementia who is exhibiting aggressive behavior, it is important to use a calm and patient tone. Speak slowly and use simple language that is easy to understand. Avoid raising your voice and avoid making accusations or threats.
Stay Positive and Reassure the Person
It can be helpful to stay positive and reassure the person with dementia that they are safe. Talk to them in a calm and gentle voice, and try to distract them with an activity or a conversation. Try to listen to what the person is saying and acknowledge their feelings.
Seek Professional Help
If the aggressive behavior is ongoing and becoming a problem, it is important to seek professional help. A doctor can help to diagnose the cause of the aggression and provide treatment options. There are also support groups and counseling services available to help families cope with the challenges of dementia.
Conclusion
When someone with dementia gets aggressive, it can be a difficult and stressful situation. It is important to remain as calm as possible and try to understand the cause of the aggression. It is also important to create a safe environment and be mindful of your language and tone. If the aggressive behavior is becoming a problem, it is important to seek professional help. Taking care of yourself and reaching out for help from family and friends can also be very beneficial.