If you are experienced as a caregiver for older adults, it is possible you have seen signs of anger issues. For some, anger outburst happen because a senior citizen is feeling vulnerable, which can magnify emotions and reactions. In separate cases, anger occurs in response to other problems, whether that is illness, pain, or memory loss.
When you see signs of anger issues in an individual you are caring for—whether those indicators are physical abuse, verbal abuse or periods of paranoia—talk through your experiences with a professional to find relief.
Coping with Physical and Verbal Abuse
If you are caring for someone who has an illness that is causing diminished cognitive skills, sometimes the medical issue causes personality changes. It is important to not blame yourself for an illness you cannot control. Be sure to take the steps you need to take care of yourself.
One first step may be to get a clear diagnosis of what is happening with your loved one. With a complete evaluation, you and your loved one’s healthcare provider may be able to land on the root of their personality change. With this knowledge, you can take the next steps needed to secure a healthy home.
In addition to making health and checkups a priority for the one you are caring for, be sure to take care of your own physical and mental health as well. Stay healthy with a proper diet, exercise, sleep, and socializing. Talk through any problems you are having so any negative thoughts can be released and address it when you are experiencing anger from a loved one.
Paranoid Behavior
Among the signs of anger issues is when an individual you are caring for accuses you of intending to harm them. It is important you bring this up, and any other examples of paranoia or hallucinations, with a doctor. This behavior could be the result of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or another serious issue in need of attention. Possibly a shift in medications can help. Getting professional help is typically the right place to start as trying to convince someone that their thoughts are unreal may only increase their anger.
Everyone has good days and bad days, but no one should suffer abuse. If you see signs of anger issues in an older loved one or in a senior citizen you are caring for, reach out for help and support. It may take some time and persistence, but communication within families and among professionals can lead to solutions.
As a caregiver, you need to take care of yourself. After all, if you aren’t healthy you are not able to take care of anyone else. Deal with any negative aspects of your life. It is important to learn how to take care of the caregiver, too. Change is inevitable and it is impossible to turn back time, but there are ways to adapt to changes. Work toward a stress-free household. Utilize the support available to maintain a healthy environment, for yourself and your loved ones.