Caregiver dealing with Dementia Aggression Issues

This can be verbal or physical and often occurs when the stress level of the person with dementia has been exceeded. Often the person with dementia feels their personal space is being invaded. Depression is often associated with verbal outbursts.

Dealing with an acute episode can include:

• Speak slowly, maintain eye contact and be calm

• Divert attention away from the event

• Distract and redirect the person

• Investigate your loved one’s fears and show an understanding of their distress

• Minimize external stimuli

• Avoid events that trigger a reoccurrence.