"Stop the Rollercoaster! Master These Strategies to Effectively Manage Mood Swings in Elderly Patients!"

How to Deal with Mood Swings in Elderly Patients

Dealing with an elderly person's frequent mood swings can be very stressful, especially if that person is a loved one. The first step toward coping with these mood swings is realizing that this behavior is not intentional. From there, you can use the following strategies to manage an elderly person’s emotional fluctuations.

Bursts of Rage or Anger

One typical behavior caregivers encounter is frequent outbursts of anger, often accompanied by yelling. Caregivers need to understand that age and illness can intensify certain personality traits, causing elderly individuals to become easily annoyed or irritable. Minor issues, like misplacing an object, can sometimes trigger these outbursts.

As a caregiver, it's important to recognize that this rage often stems from discomfort or disabilities affecting the elderly person's quality of life. Listening to the elderly person’s concerns and understanding that their angry words may not be in their control can help you cope better.

Refusing to Change Clothes or Bathe

Another issue that can arise is an elderly person's refusal to maintain personal hygiene. While they may lose control over many physical functions, they often cling to the choice of when to change clothes or shower. 

Elderly individuals refusing personal care may be experiencing depression or stress related to their illness or disability. Instead of nagging them about hygiene, which can further undermine their sense of control, exploring the underlying reasons for their behavior is helpful. If depression or stress is a concern, consulting their doctor may be beneficial. For those uncomfortable with assistance, consider hiring a professional caregiver from Geriatric Care Solutions at 1-888-896-8275 or utilizing a family member they trust to help with these personal tasks.

These strategies can help ensure your loved one receives the care they need without feeling burdened. Hiring professional in-home care services can provide peace of mind and ensure safety and comfort for your loved one.