What is aggressive behaviour in dementia?
Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally taxing, and managing aggression associated with the condition can feel particularly overwhelming. It’s completely normal to experience feelings of exhaustion and frustration when faced with verbal or physical outbursts from a loved one.
This article delves into the causes of aggression in dementia and offers practical tips for managing it with patience and care. Additionally, you’ll discover care options that can support both your loved one and your own well-being throughout this challenging journey.
What Does Aggression in Dementia Mean?
Aggression in dementia encompasses both physical and verbal outbursts from the affected individual. This can manifest as hitting, kicking, biting, yelling, insults, or threats.
This challenging behavior is distressing for both the person with dementia and their family. An aggressive episode can lead to serious consequences, including injury, hospitalization, or the need for specialized care.
Moreover, it places a heavy emotional and physical burden on caregivers. Experiencing anger or violence from someone you love can be deeply painful and exhausting, even when you understand that it’s not their fault.
Many caregivers find the experience overwhelming, leading to stress, anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout. Feelings of guilt may also arise, causing caregivers to question if they are doing enough or feeling like they are failing when they cannot prevent aggression.
These feelings are completely understandable and do not indicate a failure on the caregiver’s part. Providing care, even under challenging circumstances, reflects deep commitment and compassion.
Aggression is more common than many realize, with one-third of patients experiencing it. Many families face similar challenges.
What Are the Causes of Aggression in Dementia?
Aggression in dementia can stem from various factors, including brain changes, frustration due to communication difficulties, environmental stressors, and unmet needs such as hunger or pain. Medical issues like infections or medication side effects can also trigger aggression, particularly in Alzheimer’s and other forms of cognitive decline.
Let’s explore these causes in more detail:
Developing Symptoms of Dementia
As dementia progresses, individuals become increasingly vulnerable, experiencing confusion, memory loss, and difficulty with reasoning. These changes can make it hard for them to understand their surroundings or why certain tasks, like getting dressed or bathing, are necessary.
When they cannot effectively communicate their frustrations or needs, agitation and aggression may follow. “We often observe distressed behaviors in patients who are experiencing significant confusion,” says Charlotte Jackson, Clinical Manager at Hometouch. “Waking in an unfamiliar environment, surrounded by unknown faces, can be deeply distressing. For some individuals, aggression is a response to that fear and confusion.”
Psychotic Symptoms
Certain forms of dementia, particularly Lewy body dementia, are associated with psychotic symptoms such as delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations. A person may believe someone is trying to harm them or may see and hear things that aren’t there.
This distorted reality can significantly increase agitation, lead to aggression, and compromise the safety of both the person with dementia and those around them. For instance, a person might think their caregiver is stealing from them or that strangers are breaking into their home, prompting them to lash out physically or verbally to “protect” themselves.
Poor Dietary Intake
Malnutrition and dehydration can exacerbate behavior in individuals with dementia. When basic nutritional needs are unmet, it can lead to low energy, irritability, and confusion, increasing the risk of aggression.
For example, if a person hasn’t eaten or had enough to drink, they may become restless, lash out, or refuse care without explaining why. As Lucinda Ejiwunmi, Senior Clinical Manager (Nurse) at Hometouch, explains:
“Even mild dehydration can have a huge impact on mood and cognition in people with dementia. We encourage families to keep a close eye on eating and drinking, as small adjustments here can make a meaningful difference.”
Research indicates that poor nutritional status can worsen behavioral symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients.
Other Causes
Other common causes of aggression in someone with dementia include:
- Improper Sleep: Lack of restful sleep or disrupted sleep cycles can contribute to confusion, irritability, and aggressive outbursts.
- Fatigue: Excessive tiredness can make individuals more prone to outbursts and aggression.
- Pain: Unaddressed pain can lead to significant discomfort and aggression in dementia patients.
- Feeling Unprotected: The involvement of a caregiver in daily tasks can make the person feel insecure and helpless.
- Adverse Effects of Medication: Some medications can have side effects that worsen agitation or aggression.
- Impaired Hearing or Vision: Changes in hearing or vision can create confusion and trigger aggression.
- Feeling Afraid: Disorientation and confusion can lead to fear, causing aggressive reactions to perceived threats.
When Does Aggression Start in Dementia?
There’s no set timeline for dementia aggression stages. Individuals with dementia can display aggression at any stage of the disease, making it unpredictable. However, the timing and type of aggression can vary depending on the type of dementia.
For example, frontotemporal dementia often leads to aggression early in the disease course, while aggression in Alzheimer’s disease is more likely to appear in later stages.
“The specific region of the brain affected by dementia significantly influences how behavior is expressed,” explains Adebola Adeyemi, Clinical Manager (Nurse) at Hometouch. “Dementia impacts more than memory; it alters how the brain regulates emotions, impulses, and basic functions.”
In most types of dementia, aggressive symptoms tend to occur as the patient becomes more dependent on daily activities, creating a sense of helplessness that can trigger anger and agitation.
Related topic: Benefits of Live-in Care for Dementia Patients
Coping with Aggressive Behavior in Dementia
Dealing with aggression in dementia can be challenging. While managing your own frustration and exhaustion is crucial, there are effective strategies to help handle these behaviors.
Here are some tips to assist you in managing aggression in dementia:
- Give Them Space: Step back when your loved one is agitated to defuse the situation.
- Control Your Frustration: Stay calm, take a deep breath, and if necessary, step away briefly to regain composure.
- Keep the Environment Calm: Reduce noise and harsh lighting to create a peaceful space.
- Avoid Raising Your Voice: Speak gently and steadily; shouting can increase fear and confusion.
- Use Soothing Music: Play soft, familiar music to ease tension.
- Identify Triggers: Pay attention to what causes aggression and minimize those triggers.
- Use Calming Communication Techniques: Speak slowly and clearly, giving them time to respond.
Supporting a loved one with dementia-induced aggression can be emotionally and physically draining. It’s equally important to care for yourself as it is to care for them. Find ways to prioritize your own well-being, whether through rest, reflection, or leaning on your support network. If caregiving is affecting your health, consider reaching out to organizations like the Alzheimer’s Society.
Care Options for People with Dementia and Aggression
When someone with dementia exhibits aggression, caregiving can become overwhelming. Choosing the right care option can alleviate this burden.
The right care setting can also reduce aggressiveness in dementia by providing trained staff, structured routines, and a calm environment tailored to the individual’s needs.
“As someone who’s supported many families through this journey, I can’t stress enough how important it is to find the right care for a loved one with aggressive dementia. The right care doesn’t just help keep them safe and comfortable — it also gives families the breathing room and peace of mind they need to cope and stay strong,” says Dimple Chandarana, Head of Clinical Governance and Registered Manager at Hometouch.
Live-in Care for Dementia Aggression
Live-in care provides a professional caregiver in the home, offering 24/7 support. Caregivers assist with daily tasks, provide companionship, and are trained to manage challenging behaviors like aggression with patience and understanding.
This option is ideal for families wanting their loved one to remain at home while needing professional support to handle aggression. It also keeps the patient in a familiar environment, reducing confusion and anxiety—two significant contributors to aggression.
At Hometouch, our professional caregivers for dementia are experts in providing round-the-clock care. They assist with daily tasks, provide companionship, and accompany patients to social gatherings or doctor’s appointments, all while managing anger, agitation, and aggression.
Care Homes for Aggressive Dementia Patients
Dementia care homes and EMI (Elderly Medical Infirm) nursing homes offer specialized nursing care with 24-hour support from trained staff. These caregivers are equipped to manage various behaviors associated with dementia, including aggression.
However, many individuals with dementia may feel calmer and less agitated at home. Home-based carers provide tailored support to manage aggression, ensuring safety and comfort while minimizing confusion.
“By staying in a familiar setting with a dedicated caregiver, many patients feel more at ease, reducing their anxiety and aggression,” says Tracey Chapman, Clinical Manager at Hometouch.
Related topic: The Seven Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
Addressing Dementia Aggression with the Right Care Options
Managing aggression in dementia is undoubtedly challenging, but understanding its causes and selecting the appropriate care is essential.
Hometouch offers professional live-in care for dementia patients, providing 24/7 support and tailored strategies to manage aggression. Our trained caregivers create a calm, familiar environment, ensuring the well-being of both the patient and their family. Contact us to learn how we can assist you in supporting your loved one.
Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally taxing, and managing aggression associated with the condition can feel particularly overwhelming. It’s completely normal to experience feelings of exhaustion and frustration when faced with verbal or physical outbursts from a loved one.
This article delves into the causes of aggression in dementia and offers practical tips for managing it with patience and care. Additionally, you’ll discover care options that can support both your loved one and your own well-being throughout this challenging journey.
What Does Aggression in Dementia Mean?
Aggression in dementia encompasses both physical and verbal outbursts from the affected individual. This can manifest as hitting, kicking, biting, yelling, insults, or threats.
This challenging behavior is distressing for both the person with dementia and their family. An aggressive episode can lead to serious consequences, including injury, hospitalization, or the need for specialized care.
Moreover, it places a heavy emotional and physical burden on caregivers. Experiencing anger or violence from someone you love can be deeply painful and exhausting, even when you understand that it’s not their fault.
Many caregivers find the experience overwhelming, leading to stress, anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout. Feelings of guilt may also arise, causing caregivers to question if they are doing enough or feeling like they are failing when they cannot prevent aggression.
These feelings are completely understandable and do not indicate a failure on the caregiver’s part. Providing care, even under challenging circumstances, reflects deep commitment and compassion.
Aggression is more common than many realize, with one-third of patients experiencing it. Many families face similar challenges.
What Are the Causes of Aggression in Dementia?
Aggression in dementia can stem from various factors, including brain changes, frustration due to communication difficulties, environmental stressors, and unmet needs such as hunger or pain. Medical issues like infections or medication side effects can also trigger aggression, particularly in Alzheimer’s and other forms of cognitive decline.
Let’s explore these causes in more detail:
Developing Symptoms of Dementia
As dementia progresses, individuals become increasingly vulnerable, experiencing confusion, memory loss, and difficulty with reasoning. These changes can make it hard for them to understand their surroundings or why certain tasks, like getting dressed or bathing, are necessary.
When they cannot effectively communicate their frustrations or needs, agitation and aggression may follow. “We often observe distressed behaviors in patients who are experiencing significant confusion,” says Charlotte Jackson, Clinical Manager at Hometouch. “Waking in an unfamiliar environment, surrounded by unknown faces, can be deeply distressing. For some individuals, aggression is a response to that fear and confusion.”
Psychotic Symptoms
Certain forms of dementia, particularly Lewy body dementia, are associated with psychotic symptoms such as delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations. A person may believe someone is trying to harm them or may see and hear things that aren’t there.
This distorted reality can significantly increase agitation, lead to aggression, and compromise the safety of both the person with dementia and those around them. For instance, a person might think their caregiver is stealing from them or that strangers are breaking into their home, prompting them to lash out physically or verbally to “protect” themselves.
Poor Dietary Intake
Malnutrition and dehydration can exacerbate behavior in individuals with dementia. When basic nutritional needs are unmet, it can lead to low energy, irritability, and confusion, increasing the risk of aggression.
For example, if a person hasn’t eaten or had enough to drink, they may become restless, lash out, or refuse care without explaining why. As Lucinda Ejiwunmi, Senior Clinical Manager (Nurse) at Hometouch, explains:
“Even mild dehydration can have a huge impact on mood and cognition in people with dementia. We encourage families to keep a close eye on eating and drinking, as small adjustments here can make a meaningful difference.”
Research indicates that poor nutritional status can worsen behavioral symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients.
Other Causes
Other common causes of aggression in someone with dementia include:
- Improper Sleep: Lack of restful sleep or disrupted sleep cycles can contribute to confusion, irritability, and aggressive outbursts.
- Fatigue: Excessive tiredness can make individuals more prone to outbursts and aggression.
- Pain: Unaddressed pain can lead to significant discomfort and aggression in dementia patients.
- Feeling Unprotected: The involvement of a caregiver in daily tasks can make the person feel insecure and helpless.
- Adverse Effects of Medication: Some medications can have side effects that worsen agitation or aggression.
- Impaired Hearing or Vision: Changes in hearing or vision can create confusion and trigger aggression.
- Feeling Afraid: Disorientation and confusion can lead to fear, causing aggressive reactions to perceived threats.
When Does Aggression Start in Dementia?
There’s no set timeline for dementia aggression stages. Individuals with dementia can display aggression at any stage of the disease, making it unpredictable. However, the timing and type of aggression can vary depending on the type of dementia.
For example, frontotemporal dementia often leads to aggression early in the disease course, while aggression in Alzheimer’s disease is more likely to appear in later stages.
“The specific region of the brain affected by dementia significantly influences how behavior is expressed,” explains Adebola Adeyemi, Clinical Manager (Nurse) at Hometouch. “Dementia impacts more than memory; it alters how the brain regulates emotions, impulses, and basic functions.”
In most types of dementia, aggressive symptoms tend to occur as the patient becomes more dependent on daily activities, creating a sense of helplessness that can trigger anger and agitation.
Related topic: Benefits of Live-in Care for Dementia Patients
Coping with Aggressive Behavior in Dementia
Dealing with aggression in dementia can be challenging. While managing your own frustration and exhaustion is crucial, there are effective strategies to help handle these behaviors.
Here are some tips to assist you in managing aggression in dementia:
- Give Them Space: Step back when your loved one is agitated to defuse the situation.
- Control Your Frustration: Stay calm, take a deep breath, and if necessary, step away briefly to regain composure.
- Keep the Environment Calm: Reduce noise and harsh lighting to create a peaceful space.
- Avoid Raising Your Voice: Speak gently and steadily; shouting can increase fear and confusion.
- Use Soothing Music: Play soft, familiar music to ease tension.
- Identify Triggers: Pay attention to what causes aggression and minimize those triggers.
- Use Calming Communication Techniques: Speak slowly and clearly, giving them time to respond.
Supporting a loved one with dementia-induced aggression can be emotionally and physically draining. It’s equally important to care for yourself as it is to care for them. Find ways to prioritize your own well-being, whether through rest, reflection, or leaning on your support network. If caregiving is affecting your health, consider reaching out to organizations like the Alzheimer’s Society.
Care Options for People with Dementia and Aggression
When someone with dementia exhibits aggression, caregiving can become overwhelming. Choosing the right care option can alleviate this burden.
The right care setting can also reduce aggressiveness in dementia by providing trained staff, structured routines, and a calm environment tailored to the individual’s needs.
“As someone who’s supported many families through this journey, I can’t stress enough how important it is to find the right care for a loved one with aggressive dementia. The right care doesn’t just help keep them safe and comfortable — it also gives families the breathing room and peace of mind they need to cope and stay strong,” says Dimple Chandarana, Head of Clinical Governance and Registered Manager at Hometouch.
Live-in Care for Dementia Aggression
Live-in care provides a professional caregiver in the home, offering 24/7 support. Caregivers assist with daily tasks, provide companionship, and are trained to manage challenging behaviors like aggression with patience and understanding.
This option is ideal for families wanting their loved one to remain at home while needing professional support to handle aggression. It also keeps the patient in a familiar environment, reducing confusion and anxiety—two significant contributors to aggression.
At Hometouch, our professional caregivers for dementia are experts in providing round-the-clock care. They assist with daily tasks, provide companionship, and accompany patients to social gatherings or doctor’s appointments, all while managing anger, agitation, and aggression.
Care Homes for Aggressive Dementia Patients
Dementia care homes and EMI (Elderly Medical Infirm) nursing homes offer specialized nursing care with 24-hour support from trained staff. These caregivers are equipped to manage various behaviors associated with dementia, including aggression.
However, many individuals with dementia may feel calmer and less agitated at home. Home-based carers provide tailored support to manage aggression, ensuring safety and comfort while minimizing confusion.
“By staying in a familiar setting with a dedicated caregiver, many patients feel more at ease, reducing their anxiety and aggression,” says Tracey Chapman, Clinical Manager at Hometouch.
Related topic: The Seven Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
Addressing Dementia Aggression with the Right Care Options
Managing aggression in dementia is undoubtedly challenging, but understanding its causes and selecting the appropriate care is essential.
Hometouch offers professional live-in care for dementia patients, providing 24/7 support and tailored strategies to manage aggression. Our trained caregivers create a calm, familiar environment, ensuring the well-being of both the patient and their family. Contact us to learn how we can assist you in supporting your loved one.
