Swift changes in moods are hallmark signs of dementia, and can be challenging for family caregivers to handle. One minute you might be taking part in a nice activity together, when apparently out of nowhere, the person’s countenance shifts. With dementia anxiety and agitation, family caregivers may end up walking on eggshells while carefully attempting to resolve a situation not fully understood.
While it’s useful to identify the primary cause behind intense emotions such as anxiety, agitation, and fear, unfortunately, it’s not always achievable. There might be a known trigger, such as boredom or hunger, that can be easily rectified; but there could be more arbitrary sources, such as the older adult remembering an upsetting memory from many years ago they are unable to talk about. To help manage dementia anxiety and agitation, sensory activities can help.
After determining that the senior isn’t in pain or physical discomfort, there are two vital actions to take:
Sensory exercises can help preempt or create distraction from dementia anxiety and agitation as well as other challenging mood changes. Try creating and implementing some of the following ideas from our experienced experts in senior home care in Creve Coeur, MO and the nearby areas:
At Compassionate Nursing Services, a trusted provider of senior home care in Creve Coeur, MO and the surrounding areas, our dementia care professionals are full of creative ideas such as these, as well as the skill to help effectively manage even the most challenging symptoms of the disease. Our goal is always to make life the very best it can be when it comes to people we serve, every day. Reach out to us at 314-432-4312 for more information.
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