Comforting Those with Alzheimer’s Disease

The Alzheimer’s Association explains anxiety and agitation in someone with Alzheimer’s disease may be caused by their inability to negotiate new information or stimuli as well as by their medical conditions and/or medication interactions. To properly deal with the problem, it is recommended the person go through a thorough medical evaluation. 

If it is determined the agitation is most likely from Alzheimer's disease, assess what is going on in the person’s life such as any changes in their living situation or with their caregiver. Keep in mind a television or other loud background noises can trigger agitation in someone with Alzheimer’s. Experts say to lessen anxiety, create a calm environment. This may mean moving them into a quieter place, and/or using soothing rituals or a security object. Other methods include going for a walk, putting on music and dancing. If you have a view to the outside, look out the window at a tree, a bird or a flower. 

Use calm words when talking to a person exhibiting anxiety. Try asking them what you can do to help or telling them you will stay with them until they feel better. Reassure them that they are safe. Keep your voice calm and refrain from criticizing, arguing or sounding angry. Creating a daily routine is helpful as is having activities on-hand to engage the person. 

For exceptional memory care, Colorado Springs’ MorningStar at Bear Creek provides compassionate, individualized care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Every aspect of our care addresses the needs of our residents starting with the very design of our community to a wide range of wellness programs, activities and healthy, delicious meals.  By getting to know each resident’s history, vocation, talents and preferences, we design a daily routine to stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We are dedicated to creating a true home for residents within an ideal setting and encourage you to see firsthand the best memory care Colorado Springs has to offer.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/anxiety-agitation