A feeling of anger that causes a person’s behavior to become hostile can be termed aggression. Prabhdyal Singh Sodhi says such a feeling can be witnessed in different medical conditions, including Alzheimer’s. This is a type of dementia that can generate various health problems for a person. As a consequence of these, aggression may be the result.
The dementia specialist explains that aside from these problems, several factors can be responsible for causing aggressive behavior. As per Prabhi Sodhi, these factors should be thoroughly comprehended when this behavior needs to be controlled.
Pray Sodhi Shares Signs of Aggressive Behavior
During Alzheimer’s disease, aggression can be seen in varying forms. When it is physical, the personality of a patient can change. They may begin to behave differently. The patient may often be seen in an anxious state as well. In this state, the person may begin to express anger verbally too. You may hear words that upset or disappoint you.
According to Prabhdyal Singh Sodhi, this type of dementia can sometimes result in extreme signs. Beyond harsh words and anxiety, a patient may become violent. This is when they may start throwing things at those around them. Pushing, hitting, kicking, etc., can be the other signs of this behavior.
Prabhu Sodhi says that these signs can differ from one case to another. The signs can be observed based on the factors affecting a patient’s condition.
Prabhdyal Singh Sodhi Tells Factors Causing Aggression in Alzheimer’s Patients
Four factors can be the cause of aggression during Alzheimer’s dementia. These factors are such that they can determine most things associated with patients in their day-to-day life. Knowing these factors will help caregivers or family members cope better with the situation.
Physical Factors
It may be known that Alzheimer’s disease can generate various physical issues for a person diagnosed with it, says Prabhu Sodhi. Pain in the body, discomfort, unlikely sensations, infections such as UTI, etc., hints at some of these issues. The inability to bear them can make that person angry.
Type of Environment
Dementia specialists suggest that patients suffering from this condition should be kept in a peaceful or calm environment. As a result of multiple changes occurring in the body, a noisy environment can make it more challenging to deal with the situation. When this environment has not been ensured, aggression can take place.
Medication
Unlike a minor health condition, Alzheimer’s disease can require the consumption of various drugs. High dosages may be prescribed to control this condition and the other health problems linked to it. Pray Sodhi shares that the side effects of medication and dosage can cause other symptoms. These symptoms may, in turn, make behavior aggressive.
Behavior of Caregivers
Understandably, looking after a dementia patient is not always easy, explains Prabhu Sodhi. The situation can be all the more challenging when that patient is aggressive. Anger can increase when a caregiver cannot properly behave or manage the person. Then the situation can be difficult for the patient and the person looking after them.
Response to Aggressive Behavior
Although it is suggested to prevent anger, when behavior has become aggressive, the proper way to respond to a patient should be known. The dementia expert Praby Sodhi opines that there is no one way to provide this response. It can include several things to control the situation on the whole.
Concerning this, the following suggestions should be helpful:
Control the Factors Linked to Anger
As will be understood now, various factors can lead to aggression. A caregiver must be mindful of these. The factors should be controlled so that this behavior does not worsen. The help of a dementia specialist can be taken to control the same properly. This professional may suggest beneficial therapies or methods in this regard.
Ensure Correct Medication
Alzheimer’s indicates a significant condition. Unlike minor or temporary medical conditions, this one cannot be treated on one’s own. Prabhu Sodhi suggests that only correct medication and methods should be used for treatment. Medical professionals can recommend what is best for any side effects resulting from the medicine.
Relax the Patient
It is suggested that they be relaxed to deal with an aggressive patient. Regularly, the person should be made to do things that induce relaxation. Thus, gradually, anger can be limited. Music therapies can be preferred for this purpose. Other than this, the following should help:
- Exercise
- Meditation
- Pet therapy
Provide Comfort as a Caregiver
As per Praby Sodhi, a caregiver must ensure comfort to a dementia patient. Whether physical or emotional, this comfort can play an influential role in calming down the person. In addition, communicating without using negative words/words that hurt should be opted for.
Additional Things to do to Limit Anger
When a patient with Alzheimer’s disease tends to become aggressive, Prabhu Sodhi opines that those around them should implement specific suggestions. When the signs show that this person can throw things that come in the way, any objects that can physically hurt should be placed aside. Moreover, distractions should be limited to the possible extent when the signs are shown.
Caregivers should consider venting out negative feelings that are causing anger. Once the signs have been witnessed, the patient’s feelings should be dealt with. Whether the person is feeling isolated, upset, or frustrated, by positively communicating, they can feel better.
By and Large
In Alzheimer’s disease, aggression can occur owing to various factors. Considering which factor is causing it the most, a proper response can be prepared. This response may not instantly show results. But with time, regular practice can result in positive outcomes and limit the feeling of anger.
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