Agitation is a common emotion for all of us. And more often than not, we have no problems expressing those frustrations — either verbally or through actions that make it abundantly clear what we are thinking in that moment. But for a person living with Alzheimer’s, expressing agitation is often the result of unmet needs or frustrations they cannot quite express.

As their caregiver, it is important to understand this behavior and what lies behind it — a genuine attempt to communicate.

In my book, You’re Not Alone: Living as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver, I write about the ever-changing relationship between the caregiver and care recipient and how the caregiver’s role changes as the illness progresses. But we did not have a chance to dive into agitation and how important it is to validate that person’s feelings when those moments arise.

This blog post quickly summarizes what agitation is, when it typically happens, and a few solutions to help you combat these behaviors.

What Is Agitation?

The most common time when agitation is evident is during personal care. The person with dementia or Alzheimer’s may feel like they have lost their dignity. When providing personal care, start by briefly explaining what will happen:

For example, “I am going to help you wash your hair. Does that not feel good to have clean hair?”

From there, gently explain each step, and do not rush. Rushing almost always leads to agitation, making the day more difficult for both of you. Be sure to offer affirmation throughout the day, too. This might include, “Thank you for helping me pick out those clothes. You look beautiful today.” Or, “You did a great job at setting the table.”

In other situations, fear can spark agitation. Use a gentle touch and soft-spoken and positive words throughout all tasks, reminding the person with dementia that they are in a safe place.

*Validate the person’s feelings
*Offer care with dignity
*Do not rush
*Offer affirming statements

The Importance of Good Communication

Good communication is an important part of any relationship. When caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease, the ability to communicate becomes more and more difficult as both expressing and processing information becomes impaired. This inability to express and process can be frustrating and manifest itself as agitation. Agitation can include anything from pacing to lashing out. As caregivers, we want to prevent this reaction as much as possible by communicating effectively and allowing the person time to process and respond.

The following tips will improve communication and decrease agitation:

*Approach from the front to prevent startling
*Maintain eye contact
*Lower the tone of your voice. A high pitch may indicate that you are upset
*Smile and be pleasant
*Talk with a calm presence
*Speak slowly, clearly, and directly
*Identify yourself
*Use short, simple sentences
*Ask one question at a time
*Eliminate background noise
*Give plenty of time to respond
*If they cannot find words, gently finish the sentence
*Repeat information when needed – repetition is good
*Frequently affirm/praise them, even for the smallest things
*Allow choices when possible, for example, “Coffee or milk?” “Blue or yellow shirt?”
*Validate feelings
*Use gentle touch
*Give hugs many times a day
*Do not argue – you will never win
*Laugh together
*If your talk becomes “heated,” stop. Leave the room briefly and try again later
*Do not talk down
*Do not correct them
*Do not demand. Ask nicely
*Do not take adverse behavior personally
*Slow down! Hurrying increases frustration

Call Leigh Hilton PLLC Today!!

As a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s, it is helpful to remember that chronic diseases and chronic illnesses have a way of changing relationships for many reasons and in many ways. Roadmaps such as the above-mentioned tools can be helpful, but they are not easy initially and require patience and practice.

At Leigh Hilton PLLC in Denton, we are in awe of clients juggling so much for themselves and loved ones with Alzheimer’s. Our goal was to build a practice with a team of professionals who work together to have your back at all times – whether that means putting steps in place to protect you and your loved ones or offering practical advice. Leigh Hilton PLLC wants to be your first call every time for any estate planning or elder law need. We look forward to serving you.