Is your loved ones acting strangely these days? Are they constantly repeating themselves? Have they exhibited any violent or disturbing behaviors? If you’ve notice these tendencies in them lately, there is a chance that your loved one is exhibiting some symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease results in changes to the brain that often lead to behavioral issues. Every year, more than four and a half million Americans are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. If your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, he or she will need proper, specialized care to ensure their long-term health, comfort and safety. Therefore, you should act immediately if you notice that your loved one is exhibiting the following symptoms.
Physical and Verbal Aggression
Physical and verbal aggression are considered relatively common in Alzheimer’s patients as more than half of the patients diagnosed per year exhibit such behaviors. Some aggressive behaviors include cursing, kicking, pushing, screaming, biting and scratching. It is very important for you to remember that none of these behaviors are intentional or deliberate; they are triggered entirely by the disease. However, we understand that at times, it can be quite difficult for you to not take their outbursts personally. Try to focus on what could be triggering them instead. Are they experiencing any physical discomfort? Are they being overly stimulated by the environment? Remember that the goal is to help your loved ones understand the nature of their disease so that they can come to terms with it.
Repetition of Words and Memory Problems
Alzheimer’s disease can cause your loved ones to suffer from memory problems that can lead to behaviors like asking repetitive questions and getting lost in places that they are familiar with. They may also face difficulties whenever they need to recall recent events, make decisions, pick up new things or understand and follow what has been said by others. In the later stages of Alzheimer’s, some patients even suffer from serious memory problems where they completely lose track of time, people and places. They may also forget how to use common items like a fork or pen, which will then affect their ability to perform everyday activities on their own.
Sundown Syndrome
One in five people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease may experience the sundown syndrome. Sundown syndrome refers to behaviors such as confusion, restlessness and agitation that Alzheimer’s patients may experience during the transition from day to night. Some mild symptoms of sundown syndrome include agitation, sadness, anger, stubbornness, anxiety, and even rapid mood changes. More severe symptoms that patients may suffer include hallucinating, exhibiting violent behavior or feeling paranoid.
Memory Care at Discovery Village At Southlake
At Discovery Village At Southlake, our SHINE® Memory Care program is specially created for residents who have Alzheimer’s disease. Our team of highly-skilled nurses and staff are trained to provide around-the-clock care to all our residents. If you are looking for a senior living community that provides memory care for Alzheimer’s patients, we warmly invite you and your loved ones to tour our beautiful Southlake campus in Texas! Learn more about our memory care program today.
