When dealing with Dementia/Alzheimer’s patients we get a variety of responses.
One moment the resident may be the sweetest and calmest person, and a moment later s/he may be cussing you out.
This is not personal. This is not a personal attack on the second party in any way.
The important thing to remember is this is the disease.
So how do you respond?
- First and foremost, with love—stay calm and answer in a calm, loving manner
- Step away if the stress of the moment becomes too much
- Do not take it personally
- Observe the environment—is there something that may be setting the individual off? Knowing the person really helps to understand the triggers. Does noise irritate the person, was there a bad night, is there a person that sets the person off, etc.
- Soothe the individual. I have found that music is always a wonderful healer, but sometimes you have to try different techniques to find the right one for that individual
- Check with your physician to discuss medications and the effects on the resident
- Take away any triggers—if possible
Above all, remember this is the frustration and disease speaking and not your loved one.
How do you deal with outbursts?