How to Manage Aggressive Behavior in Seniors Who Have Dementia

by | Dec 11, 2019 | Assisted Living

Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia may exhibit aggressive behavior. Aggression and combativeness are generally seen in the later stages of dementia, however, they can occur early on. Here are some ways to help manage your loved one’s aggressive behavior so that both you and the aging adult can stay safe.

Stay Active

Staying active through exercise helps keep aggressive behavior at bay. Exercise helps the body release neurotransmitters known as endorphins, as well as norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. These are brain chemicals that are thought to play an important role in mood regulation.

Before suggesting that your loved one with dementia embarks on a new exercise program, make an appointment with the doctor. A physical examination will be performed to make sure that the elderly individual is healthy enough to withstand a new activity routine. If the senior refuses to exercise, contact a healthcare specialist in dementia nursing care Columbia SC who can suggest other ways of staying active.

Ensure Sound Sleep

Insomnia and nighttime awakening can cause anxiety, daytime sleepiness, depression, and aggressive behavior in certain seniors with dementia. To promote sound sleep, make sure that your loved one doesn’t drink too much water before bedtime so that he or she doesn’t need to wake up to use the bathroom.

Also, keep the senior’s room cool enough so that sweating doesn’t prevent sleep, and discourage the use of laptops and smartphones before bedtime. The unnatural light from these devices can disrupt sleep patterns. If you are unable to manage your loved one’s aggressiveness, contact a professional in dementia nursing care Columbia SC for help.

To learn more about dementia and senior care, contact or visit the website.

Latest Articles

Categories

Archives