There are many challenges that come with Alzheimer’s disease. If you are caring for a loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease, one of the things that you may need to deal with is their emotions. There might be times when everything seems fine and other times when your loved one’s emotions seem completely out of control. However, there are some tips for managing emotions in your loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease.
Homecare Buffalo NY – Managing Emotions in Your Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease
Check Out Their Surroundings
Many people who have Alzheimer’s disease can’t properly express themselves. If there is something wrong with their surroundings, instead of saying what it is, they make act out. They may be irritable. You and your loved one’s homecare providers should check out their surroundings. Maybe the lighting is too bright or not bright enough. They may be seeing shadows on their floors or walls. These shadows could be scaring them. Check out the surroundings in your loved one’s home and see if any changes need to be made.
Figure Out if Your Loved One is in Pain
Another thing that might be making your loved one’s emotions go haywire is pain. Their back or neck might be hurting. Maybe they have a stomachache or a headache that is causing them discomfort. Some people with Alzheimer’s disease, depending on the stage of the disease, won’t be able to tell you if they are in pain or they won’t be able to describe the pain they are experiencing. Take a look at their emotions and look at their body language to see if your loved one is in pain. If they are in pain, see what you can do to make it better. This might include a visit to their doctor’s office.
Sleep Issues Can Cause Emotional Distress
If you are noticing that your loved one is in emotional distress, you should see how much they are sleeping or not sleeping for that matter. Sleep issues can cause your loved one to become moody, irritable, anxious, or even depressed. Depending on which sleeping issues they are having, it might require you to take them to the doctor for medication to help them sleep. Maybe they can’t sleep because they are scared. You might need to put nightlights in their room.
These are some of the tips for managing emotions in your loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease. If your loved one seems depressed, anxious, irritable, or overwhelmed, it is important to figure out why. Once you figure out the cause of their emotional distress, you can find a solution that works to make them feel better.
Sources: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/relieving-stress-anxiety-resources-alzheimers-caregivers
