Methods for Alleviating Agitation in Alzheimer's Patients
Posted: Friday, March 10, 2006
by Joseph Green
http://good-health-matters.com
By Joe Green
Although we rely on drugs to help a person with
Alzheimer's to cope with their illness, there are many
things we can do without drugs to make their lives more
pleasant and to reduce the ordinary age-related problems
associated with all elderly people.
Alzheimer's disease is a debilitating illness that slowly
robs its sufferers of their ability to function in the
everyday world. Caregivers for Alzheimer's patients must
deal with not only the mental decline of their loved
ones but also the behavioral and psychiatric problems that
arise as a result of the disease, such as agitation,
aggression and psychosis. It is important to remember,
however, that while Alzheimer's and Agitation are often
linked, disturbing behavioral symptoms can often be
alleviated without medication or institutionalization.
have an underlying health problem, such as a urinary tract
infection or skin irritation. Expressions of agitation,
such as pacing, fidgeting, or being aggressive, can be
nonverbal clues that an Alzheimer's patient is feeling
pain, so a physician should always be consulted to
determine if the behavior is a physical manifestation of
illness. Dangerous drug interactions are also common in
patients with Alzheimer's, and Agitation can be one symptom
of medication problems. A physician should always be
consulted if difficulties with medications are suspected.
Sometimes, however, physicians and caregivers determine
that there is no physical reason for agitation in a patient
with Alzheimer's. In those cases, the link between
Alzheimer's and Agitation may be environmental, and a
number of therapies and techniques can be implemented to
correct the behavior.
Changes in environment are one cause of agitation in
Alzheimer's patients. A new primary caregiver, visitors
from out of town, or a change of residence can frighten or
disorient an Alzheimer's patient. Encouraging a patient to
rest between triggers, eliminating certain triggers, such
as a poorly lit hallway, and maintaining a simple, daily
routine are ways of easing environmental stress.
When a patient is agitated, caregivers can also use
simple conflict resolution tools to keep the incident from
escalating. Reassurance, statements of understanding, and a
calm demeanor are all necessary for dealing with agitation.
If caregivers themselves become agitated or aggressive, the
conflict could easily escalate. In all cases, it is best if
the environment is prepared for safety, including the
removal of weapons and the installation of safety locks on
doors and windows.
Other methods of environmental intervention focus on the
strengths and abilities of the Alzheimer's patient while
avoiding increasing their frustration and agitation. Music
therapy involves the incorporation of pleasing music or
sounds into the patient's daily routine. Personal attention
by caregivers and physical contact, such as massages or
hugs, also ease loneliness and its associated problem
behaviors. Exercise is not only beneficial to health but
also good for controlling problems in patients with
Alzheimer's, and Agitation can be eased by the both
physically and mentally therapeutic act of working in a
secure garden. Even sitting in a garden provides a pleasant
sensory experience that helps patients feel connected,
while allowing them to be outdoors in the fresh air with
sunlight. Pet therapy with therapy dogs can also be
beneficial for patients living at home or in a nursing
home. Pets offer physical affection, distraction from
unpleasant emotions, and a means of connecting with
caregivers by talking about the pet.. In the end, a variety
of options exist for easing agitation in Alzheimer's patients
without medication or institutionalization.
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