Page 42 - Dementia-Care-Specialist-Toolkit

Caregiver Tip Sheets

Anger, Frustration, & Fighting

People with Alzheimer’s or dementia can get confused,
depressed, and angry. Their feelings and actions are sometimes
hard for them to control.

They may hit and yell.

Don’t take their words or actions personally.

Listen to what they mean, not what they are saying.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

WHY DOES
KEEP THINGS SIMPLE
THIS HAPPEN?
• try to match tasks and what you expect with what your person
can do
People with Alzheimer’s or
dementia might: • keep your home quiet and calm when you can
• speak slowly and try not to say too much at one time
• be confused by:
MAKE A CHANGE
• new places or people
• offer a treat like a cookie or some ice cream
• something they see and
• lead your person to a different room
don’t know
• offer to watch a TV show or listen to music
• become frustrated • ask a question about a topic your person enjoys
because they cant:
BE SAFE
• pull on a sweater
• remove or lock away all weapons (guns, knives, etc.)
• open a door
• back away slowly if the behavior is scary
• find a lost item like a • call 911 if you are afraid for your or someone else’s safety
purse, wallet or glasses
• be frightened/scared of:

• the shower or bath

• a new place or person

844.HELP. ALZ
AlzheimersLA.org
© 2016 Alzheimer’s Los Angeles
Supported by DHHS, ACL (#90AL0002-01-00)

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