Aging parents’ angry outbursts take a toll on family caregivers, and you might even find you dread having to take care of your senior loved one when he or she lashes out regularly. For some seniors, angry outbursts are just an amplification of already stubborn personalities. Others may suddenly exhibit anger in response to changes in their bodies or environments. Figuring out why your loved one is suddenly acting angrier than normal is easier when you know about these top causes of negative behavioural changes in seniors.
1. Physical Pain & Discomfort
If you’ve ever experienced serious pain, such as that caused by a dental infection, you already know how difficult it is to smile when you’re in agony. Seniors often experience chronic pain, and trying to handle it can take a toll on their patience. Nonverbal seniors may also lash out if they’re having discomfort they can’t relieve on their own. Making sure your loved one’s clothes aren’t pinching his or her skin or that he or she is resting comfortably could make a difference in his or her behavior.
Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Oakville elderly home care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help.
2. Communication Difficulties
Seniors experience communication challenges for a variety of reasons. Your loved one might be unable to find the right words to express how he or she feels, and yelling seems to be what works. Seniors who are incapable of speaking at all might choose to throw objects to make their points. Encouraging your loved one to take the time to say what he or she needs can be helpful. Lowering the noise level in the home could also encourage your parent to take a softer tone. Visual aids are another effective way to help seniors find the right ways to convey their messages.
3. Frustration
Changes in your loved one’s abilities can make even common tasks, such as putting on shoes or a shirt, difficult. Your loved one may get angry when he or she can no longer do what he or she used to do, and being rushed doesn’t help. Try to leave plenty of time in the schedule to get ready before an appointment. Offering assistance with other tasks can help seniors have more time to handle their daily routines with greater independence.
The physical and cognitive challenges that accompany aging can make it difficult for seniors to manage everyday tasks, which can put their safety and health at risk. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of in-home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
4. Emotional Health Issues
Depression, anxiety, grief, and PTSD are all mental health disorders that can have increased anger as a symptom. Your loved one may need professional therapy to learn how to handle his or her emotions. Some seniors need medication to address severe anger. A professional counselor can help your loved one find out if he or she could benefit from mental health treatment services.
5. Inadequate Rest
Like anyone, seniors are more likely to be prone to anger when they’re tired. Exhaustion is common in the senior years, and your loved one might be reacting to disruptions in his or her sleep patterns. Giving your loved one a chance to enjoy some quiet time or nap during the day could keep your parent’s emotions more even.
6. Dementia or Stroke
Brain injuries are often associated with personality changes. If your loved one has a stroke or receives a dementia diagnosis, it’s worth talking to the doctor about how to address the symptoms. Making sure your loved one completes his or her therapy and takes prescribed medication on time can help him or her maintain a calmer personality.
Symptoms such as agitation, confusion, anger, and frustration are common in elderly people with dementia. Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Oakville seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Home Care Assistance. Schedule a free in-home consultation by giving us a call today at (905) 337-1200.