What Causes Frustration in Alzheimer’s Patients?

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease can have its trying moments, to say the least. You might feel that the more you do for your loved one, the more frustrated they get. It’s hard not to take it personally, but even more important to understand that it isn’t personal, it’s part of the progression of the disease. A trained Alzheimer’s care provider who can come to your home and help is a great way to find relief.

Primary Causes of Frustration and/or Anger in Alzheimer’s Patients

Before you can take steps to reduce your loved one’s frustration with a situation, it’s important to understand why he’s feeling especially frustrated or angry. While each person and each situation is different, frustration levels often escalate when a person is experiencing one of these three conditions.

Inability to understand or perform as requested. If your loved one is unsure about what you’re asking or no longer understands how to do something they used to be able to do, they might become frustrated when you expect something from them that they cannot do.

Environmental conditions. Your loved one may struggle more in different types of conditions. Knowing which ones affect him negatively can help you have conversations and complete tasks away from those areas.

Physical discomfort. Your loved one may not be able to fully explain to you what’s hurting, if they’re hungry, or if they’re tired, but if you think any of these may be a problem, work on solving them before introducing any new requests from them.

Five Ways to Reduce Frustration Levels

Reducing your loved one’s frustration will also reduce yours, making a task or activity more pleasant.

Here are five tips to help you through your day with your loved one.

Explain what you need in clear, easy-to-follow instructions. You might need to provide step-by-step instructions for what used to be everyday activities like getting dressed or brushing their teeth. Use short sentences and positive feedback for each step that’s completed along the process.

Introduce new activities when he’s at his best. If your loved one is a morning person, plan doctor appointments or errands during that time.

Reduce environmental distractions. If you need your loved one to do something, turn off the TV or close the curtains so they can focus on you.

Practice patience and allow enough time. Don’t try to rush them through breakfast before you have to take them to the doctor. Give them plenty of time to complete their activity before you move to the next, and be patient if they’re easily distracted or don’t remember how to do something.

Provide choices when possible. Allowing your loved one to choose which shirt to wear might make them more willing to get dressed.

Getting Help Can Reduce Frustration for You as Well

You’re only human, so you’re bound to get frustrated sometimes as well. Finding resources to help you care for your loved one is important for both you and your loved one. An Alzheimer’s care provider understands the disease and will be able to help your loved one with daily activities and responsibilities. And if you need to take a short break from caregiving, your Alzheimer’s care provider will be there to safely and lovingly care for your loved one as you step out to rest and rejuvenate.

If you or an aging loved one is considering Alzheimer’s Care Services in Marietta, GA, please contact the caring staff at CaraVita Home Care today. (770) 643-1712