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COPING WITH ANGER AND AGGRESSION
Dementia affects the parts of the brain that control
mood and behavior. An individual can become anxious
and fearful, which often manifest as anger and
aggression.
Possible problems:
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Seek a doctor's advice to determine if there is
a medical cause, or if medications are causing
adverse side effects.
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Limit outside noise, clutter or the number of
persons in a room.
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Keep to the same routines.
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Reduce caffeine intake.
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Restrict choices to minimize confusion. Do not
ask, "What would you like for lunch-soup or a
sandwich?" Instead, say, "Here's some soup."
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Keep objects and furniture in the same places.
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Help orient the confused person with calendars
and clocks.
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Dot the environment with familiar objects and
photographs to provide a sense of security and
promote pleasant memories.
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Try gentle touch, soothing music, reading or
walks.
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Speak in a reassuring voice.
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Distract the person with a snack or an activity.
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Learn to recognize certain behaviors. An
agitated state or pulling at clothing, for
example, could indicate a need to use the
bathroom.
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Do not try to restrain the person during a
catastrophic reaction.
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Keep dangerous objects out of reach.
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If agitation increases at night, a nightlight
may reduce confusion.
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In severe cases, doctors can prescribe
medication to calm an individual.
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Acknowledge the person's anger over the loss of
control in their life.
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