BEHAVIOURAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL PROBLEMS IN THE CASE OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE: AGGRESSION
Some people with dementia can become extremely aggressive, irrespective of the underlying disease that is causing the illness. Although spouses are often very expert at managing the aggression, the involvement of children can be a very serious problem. An aggressive or violent, confused adult can cause major distress to children and even teenagers who don’t understand what is going on. When children are affected it is a natural reaction to become angry with the sufferer, but although the situation must be resolved, it is important not to lose sight of the fact that the aggression is not a conscious, considered action of the sufferer. It results from brain damage and something has triggered off an abnormal behavioural response. This ‘something’ may be a misinterpretation of events going on around the sufferer, a feeling of inadequacy that is exaggerated by the attitude of younger people, or a hundred and one other things. The main thing is to stay calm and this will usually be a help to other people. As is the case with so many other abnormalities of behaviour in these circumstances, the best approach is often that of diversion, distracting attention in another direction and gently persuading the sufferer to become interested in an alternative activity.
Try to work out what it is that might be precipitating the outbursts and hope to avoid similar situations in the future. Above all, if this type of behaviour becomes a real problem, seek advice earlier rather than later. Very rarely, aggressive behaviour is consistently directed against one person for no obvious reason, with threats of harm or even expressions of intent to kill. This situation has arisen many times, but actual physical violence occurs exceptionally rarely. Nevertheless it is absolutely essential that carers seek support and help as soon as they find themselves threatened. Having to live in fear of being attacked will affect not only carers, but also their relationship with the demented relative. Aggressive behaviour can usually be treated successfully by the careful administration of medicines.
Never react to violence with violence or anger, as this won’t prevent a further occurrence; try to avoid aggressive situations developing and step back out of reach if there is any obvious evidence that you are about to be assaulted. If threats of physical harm become a reality, seek medical help at the first opportunity.
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