Anger Management in Elder People
What causes anger issues in older adults?
It may be uncomfortable to see your older child go out or talk to someone. When they are doing it for the first time, we are not sure what to do. Sometimes it can be abusive, especially when they yell at housekeepers or neighbours. Some of us can begin to consider possible causes. Older people can become angry for a variety of reasons. Keep reading to learn what these reasons might be and how to provide for your elderly loved ones so they don’t become disorganized.
Dementia
Memory, comprehension, attention, and other cognitive abilities gradually deteriorate with dementia. This often leads to misunderstandings and makes it difficult to communicate requirements to maintainers. Hence, older people tend to get angry and lash out at people around them when they don’t get exactly what they want. Anger Management in Elder People
Physical discomfort
Older people, especially those with Alzheimer’s disease, often have difficulty expressing their feelings. When they can’t, it can manifest as hostility
Irritability
The presence of rowdy people may disturb the elderly, who previously lived a calm, quiet life. They may easily get irritated and act out because of this and Anger Management in Elder People
Side effects
Multiple chronic illnesses are often treated with medications in older adults. Elderly people may often experience hostility as a result of the adverse effects of this drug.
Hunger
When they are hungry, older people, especially those with dementia, work more. We have to realize that they are not acting like this on purpose, rather their state is responsible and Anger Management in Elder People
Lack of sleep
Seniors who don’t get enough sleep can become irritable and irritable. It is important to give them adequate rest. Fatigue is a regular occurrence in later life.
Disruptiveenvironment
When confronted with strangers, whether indoors or outdoors, seniors with dementia tend to become agitated. Older people may become overexcited and talk loudly in crowded environments.
Why anger may increase with age?
As they age, older persons experience hormonal changes. For instance, testosterone levels in men may drop (hypogonadism). Similarly, oestrogen levels start to fall in women. 2 Due to sleep loss and circadian rhythm disruption, elderly persons may become irritable.
Effects of increased anger with age
Although it is acceptable to get angry or angry at times, persistent anger problems can be harmful to both mental and physical health. Negative reactions to anger include:
- Inflammation
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Arthritis
- Cancer
What are the ways to manage anger in older adults: Anger Management Tips
Older adults who struggle with anger may find it difficult to cope. But, you may be able to handle the issue by adopting some simple methods and Anger Management in Elder People
Identify what triggered the anger
To determine what caused your older person’s anger, try to relive the incident. After finding the trigger, take steps to suppress the trigger.
Rule out physical pain
Dementia patients are more prone to acting out when hurt. If pain is the cause of your elderly loved one’s anger, it may be wise to see a geriatric healthcare professional. If pain relievers or other appropriate drugs or techniques are not enough to relieve the pain, the doctor may prescribe them.
Yoga, meditation, and exercise
Older people, especially those in turbulent relationships, can feel stressed by unresolved worries, which can lead to anger. Yoga, meditation, exercise – all these help to reduce tension and calm the mind in such situations.
Counselling
Because they are aware of their aging, older people may suppress their feelings, which can sometimes manifest as anger. Counseling with geriatric therapists allows senior citizens to express themselves freely and release their suppressed feelings.
Benefits of anger management for elderly
Seniors can benefit greatly from anger management exercises, including
Improved quality of relationships
Relationships with loved ones are usually hampered by frequent bouts of anger. Caregivers may feel discouraged from giving their all when they see their elderly patients chewing on their own heads. Relationships with family and friends may improve for older adults who practice anger management.
Better physical and mental health
Physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Anger can contribute to the development of chronic diseases, according to a study by the American Psychological Association (APA).
Take control of life
When you’re constantly angry it might seem that your life is getting out of control. Yoga and breathing exercises may help relax mind and body. Yoga is known to improve psychological health in older adults.4 With a calm mind, older adults can feel their life in more control.
More self-awareness
We are able to think rationally when we can manage our emotions. It enhances our capacity for self-discovery. Older people who engage in anger management practices may avoid aggressive behavior because they are better able to understand their feelings.
Conclusion
Anger is often a symptom of mental health. Anger is a symptom of mental and physical health in older adults. While occasional wheezing is a sign of a healthy body, frequent wheezing, especially in older people, can indicate underlying issues. In order to control anger, it is very important to identify the root cause and implement the necessary remedies. Adults can protect the health of their elderly loved ones by using the anger management tips above.
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M.A.(Hons) in Geography at University of Calcutta.
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