Beyond Memory Loss:
- Anna Victoria Granados Villarreal
- Jun 23, 2024
- 3 min read
Understanding Behavioral Changes in Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's disease is most commonly known for its impact on memory, but for caregivers, it's the behavioral changes that can be most challenging. People with Alzheimer's often experience aggression, delusions, hallucinations, and sundowning syndrome, leaving loved ones feeling confused and overwhelmed. This article will explain what these behaviors look like, how to manage them, and offer resources for support.
1. When Frustration Turns into Aggression:
Aggressive behavior in Alzheimer's can be frightening for caregivers. It can manifest as anger, yelling, hitting, or resistance to care. This often stems from feelings of frustration, fear, or confusion that the person with Alzheimer's is struggling to express.
Calming the Storm: The key to managing aggression is staying calm yourself. Speak softly, validate their feelings, and try to understand the root of the frustration. If they are resisting care, remove yourself from the situation if necessary, and return when they are calmer. Providing reassurance and a safe space can help de-escalate the situation.
Can medication help? Sometimes, medications can be helpful in managing anxiety or depression that might be contributing to aggression. However, this is a decision that should be made in consultation with a doctor.
2. Living in a World of Their Own: Delusions
Delusions are fixed false beliefs that the person with Alzheimer's holds onto despite evidence to the contrary. They might believe someone is stealing from them, their spouse is an imposter, or they need to be somewhere else.
Navigating a Different Reality: Arguing with someone experiencing delusions is unhelpful. Instead, try to validate their feelings and gently redirect them. For example, if they believe their spouse is an imposter, you might say, "I understand you're feeling unsure, but [spouse's name] has been by your side for a long time." Distraction can also be helpful in some cases.
3. Seeing Things That Aren't There: Hallucinations
Hallucinations can be very distressing for both the person with Alzheimer's and their caregiver. They might see people or animals, hear voices, or smell something unpleasant.
Staying Grounded: The most important thing is to stay calm and reassuring. Don't argue about the reality of the hallucination, but validate their feelings. You might say, "It sounds like you're seeing something scary. Can I sit with you for a while?" Try to distract them with a soothing activity, like listening to music or looking at familiar photos.
Can medication help? In some cases, medications can help manage hallucinations, but this should be discussed with a doctor to determine the best course of treatment.
4. Sundown Syndrome: When Day Turns to Night
Sundowning syndrome is a phenomenon where confusion and behavioral changes worsen in the late afternoon or evening. This can manifest as anxiety, agitation, hallucinations, delusions, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping.
Creating Calm Evenings: Maintaining a consistent routine throughout the day can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and reduce sundowning symptoms. Ensure good lighting in the evenings to avoid shadows that might be frightening. Provide calming activities before bedtime, such as listening to music or taking a warm bath. Establishing a relaxing bedtime ritual can also signal to the body that it's time to wind down.
Medications are not a first-line treatment for sundowning, but can be considered for severe cases.
Remember, You Are Not Alone
It's important to understand that these behavioral changes can occur simultaneously, and caregivers should not feel alone in managing them. Support groups and professional help can provide valuable guidance and resources. The Alzheimer's Association is a great place to start your search for support. Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can be challenging, but with knowledge and support, you can navigate this journey with greater understanding and compassion.
By understanding and adapting to these behavioral changes, you can create a more supportive environment for your loved one with Alzheimer's disease, while also managing your own well-being throughout this journey.