The aggressive verbal and physical behaviors that occur with dementia are distressing to the family and the individual with the memory impairment. These behaviors are often the reason that the caregiver reaches out for help.
Physical aggression is common in dementia. Examples of this behavior are as unique as the individual with dementia. Some common manifestations include:
The individual with dementia is attempting to protect themselves from the unwanted approach of the caregiver. This behavior may cause harm to the caregiver as well as the senior. While the senior is kicking or punching, they can lose their balance and fall with the outcome of a fracture.
Verbal aggression may be demonstrated by the use of foul language, yelling or shouting, screaming or asking for assistance repeatedly to the level of frustration of the caregiver. The person may yell out that others are harming them which may appear as abuse on the surface. It is always important to rule out the abuse, but keep an open mind when it is alleged. Repeated behaviors are common and can be frustrating because of the inability to redirect and manage.
Behaviors are often a part of the symptoms package with dementia. For the safety and well-being of the caregiver and the senior, it is important to minimize them because of the risk of injury to all involved. Do not ignore them because they will not go away safely without interventions.
Your loved one may not show any signs of aggressive behavior then one day it appears out of nowhere. It can be upsetting for you as the caregiver. You can reach out for help. Please contact me to learn how I can help you care for your loved one with dementia.