How to Redirect An Angry Alzheimers' Patient

What to do when someone with Alzhiemers' gets angry?

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Patience
• Education
• Understanding the disease and the person who has it.

1. First, you need to get educated on the disease and it's progress.
   Next, you will need to know the person's habits, likes & dislikes, and usual behavior.
   Last, know what to do as far as prevention of accidents, and controlling the environment.
   Know what to do and how to redirect.

2. Ex.: Everyday the person tries to get out a door. If you tell them No. They get upset or angry. Never tell the person No. Instead, redirect. Ask the person why they are going out the door. Tell them it is the wrong door & you will show them the right door.

3. Once you tell the person this (calmly) they will usually turn & go with you. Then, you simply change the subject. They do not remember 2 minutes ago. Change the direction, then change the subject. Try, asking them if they would like a cup of coffee or a snack. Redirect them to another thing or activity.

4. If the person continues the same routine everyday try to figure out what the person usually did about that time everyday. Maybe they worked in the yard, fed the animals, or went out to smoke after a meal. Whatever his/her habits that is what the person is use to. Try to keep to their usual routine. They do it out of habit or when something is not right but, can't remember to tell you.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep articles they are use to close to them like pictures, and personal belongings. Familiar items.
• Put a sign on door with large print that says DO NOT OPEN, FIRE ESCAPE, or DO NOT ENTER. This may redirect the person, and may work on all doors.
• Put a sign on bathroom door: BATHROOM
• Always use large prints and pictures from when the person was 20-40 years old.
• Never say NO. Redirect and/or change the subject. No frustrates and angers a person with Alz. who may already be upset because they can't remember.
• If redirecting, & following their usual routines do not help and the person becomes combative on a regular basis, ask for help.
• Contact the Alzheimer's Association for help & education. Often you can get educational items from a local Alzheimer's unit or local support group.

[amymcclair]

on 1/12/2009 This was a very informative article.