No matter how much you love your parents, there will be times that you may find yourself frustrated, exasperated, and exhausted. They may be showing difficult behaviors that you chalk up to their age. 

However, what you may not know is that those difficult behaviors may be symptoms of a disease. They may not intend to be difficult, but are exhibiting behaviors that have deeper, underlying causes.

Learning about how yo cope with these difficult behaviors of your elderly parents may help you ease the stress of living with them, especially during his time of the coronavirus pandemic and many places are on lockdown.

Let’s take a look at common dementia or Alzheimer’s behavior that you may encounter in your own elderly parents.

Common Difficult Behaviors Of Elderly Parents

Many seniors can be irritable and belligerent when provoked or even for no apparent reason. They may seem disoriented and confused and would resort to anger and other behavior that you may find difficult and even downright frustrating for you as a caregiver.

Let’s take a look at these common difficult behaviors.

Aggression

They may become mean. They may lash out, start a fight, be outright belligerent and stubborn. This may even be unreasonable and may lead to physical violence as well.

Confusion

This behavior may be characterized by wanting to go home even if they are at home. Feeling lost, and even paranoia. Mood swings may even be caused by confusion as well.

Poor judgment

They may start fights or start accusing you or others of the most outrageous things. They may also have trouble keeping up with money matters. Other examples of poor judgment include hoarding, repetitive statements, repetitive tasks, and stockpiling various things.

Manipulation

They may lie or invent scenarios that even they woulds start to believe in. They may also try to manipulate their way into getting what they want.

 

How to deal with difficult behaviors

These difficult behaviors may be signs of dementia, so a trip to your physician may be necessary. Meanwhile, here’s how you can deal with these dementia behaviors at home:

Aggression

For those who are starting to be aggressive or combative, try to identify the cause. Don’t take it personally, but find out how you can make things better for them. Instead of engaging in an argument, know when to pick your battles; even walk away if you need to.

Confusion

Communicate with simple words and clear explanations. If needed, use photos or even gestures. Always be calm and supportive, as more than your words, your actions may also help ease them.

Poor judgment

Don’t embarrass them. Offer help when there’s an opportunity. You may also help and work together to fix a problem. If necessary or if they insist on doing things on their own, try to explain to them patiently how best they can do something. You may even simplify the task for them. Remember, they may feel confused and the last thing you want is to make them feel alienated.

Manipulation

Don’t take it against them. Instead, be aware of how you respond. Whenever possible, set limits of boundaries. Communicate expectations clearly.

While there are no treatments to stop or cure dementia, there are therapies and medication. There are also care communities such as Blessed Home that may provide you assistance.