Interacting with a senior loved one suffering from dementia can be both rewarding and challenging. Dementia has the ability to create confusion, agitation, and frustration for seniors who are trying to cope with their condition.
Knowing how to respond when your senior relative is confused or agitated can help you provide comfort and ease their distress. The following tips will help you learn how to calm a confused or agitated senior loved one with dementia.
Identify the Signs of Confusion or Agitation
It is important to be able to identify the signs of confusion or agitation in your senior loved one. Recognizing the warning signs will help you quickly respond when they become upset or confused.
Physical Signs
Physical signs that indicate your senior loved one is confused or agitated include a flushed face, trembling or shaking, sweating, difficulty breathing, and pacing.
Behavioral Signs
Behavioral signs that indicate a senior is confused or agitated involve aggression, mumbling, increased irritability, restlessness, and repetitive words and movements.
Responding to Confusion or Agitation
There are steps you can take to help calm your senior loved one when they become confused or agitated. Here are some tips for effectively managing confusion or agitation.
Remain Calm
The most important thing to remember when your senior loved one is confused or agitated is to remain calm. This can be difficult in moments of high emotion, but doing so will help both of you manage the situation more effectively.
Speak in a Soft, Slow Voice
Talking to your agitated senior loved one in a gentle, soothing tone can help ease their distress. Speak slowly and clearly, emphasizing each word for better comprehension. You can continue to speak soothingly as long as they're upset.
Reassure Your Senior Loved One
Reassuring your senior loved one that you are there to help can create a sense of safety and security. Comfort them by hugging them or gently stroking their back and hair. You can also let them know that you are there to help them, even if the situation is difficult and frustrating.
Redirect Attention
When your senior loved one is confused or agitated, it can be helpful to redirect their attention. Try to engage them in a conversation about a pleasant topic from the past or offer some type of activity that detracts from the situation at hand.
Provide Comfort
Provide comfort by offering a supportive environment. You can play soft music, take them outside for a walk, or provide familiar items that can help the person relax and be more at ease.
Select Senior Helpers Southern Utah for Help With Daily Tasks
Dealing with a confused or agitated senior relative can be emotionally draining. Taking these steps is an effective way of helping them cope in Cedar City, Hurricane, Saint George, Mesquite, Washington, or Vernal. By recognizing the signs of confusion and agitation, you can respond quickly and effectively for the best outcome. Senior Helpers Southern Utah can partner with you to take care of everyday activities. Contact us today to learn more!