There are numerous signs and symptoms associated with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other memory-related conditions. It is not at all uncommon for episodes of screaming and crying in dementia and/or Alzheimer’s cases. At the top of their lungs, those afflicted may be screaming for help. For long periods of time, they might cry inconsolably. For both of you, this can be highly upsetting.
Unfortunately, more times than not, they can’t tell you why they’re distressed. They’re frustrated. They either won’t or can’t stop crying, screaming, and/or yelling. What’s worse is that you’re not sure what to do for them.
Know the Triggers
Though triggers for this type of behavior won’t be the same for everyone, here’s a good set of guidelines:
- Delusions, depression, anxiety, boredom, loneliness, and other psychological causes
- A change in routine
- An environment that is too loud or busy – external causes
- Physical causes like the need to use the bathroom, hunger, restlessness, and/or pain
- Sundowning syndrome
- Delirium or hallucinations
- Discomfort, physical pain, or fear
Handling Dementia-Related Crying and Screaming
To immediately handle the situation at hand, try the following:
- Do all you can to remain as calm as possible. Take a big breath.
- Try to find the trigger or cause of this spell.
- Listen for telltale clues. Observe your loved one closely.
- Make sure that all physical needs are taken care of. Use techniques that encourage calmness. Encourage an enjoyable activity. Take them outside for some fresh air. Take care of physical needs or pain.
- Using comforting activities, distracting them, and then redirecting their attention.
Handling Dementia-Related Crying and Screaming Long-Term
Okay, you’ve quieted the situation for the time being. Now, here’s what can be done long term to try to discourage spells such as these in the future:
- Make sure that all of your loved one’s medications are reviewed by their doctor.
- If pain or discomfort is causing these spells, figure out what can be done in the way of pain management.
- Try to figure out what the triggers are for these spells. Once you have a theory, test it out. Keep trying until you succeed.
- Is depression the problem? Evaluate the situation.
- Routine is a good thing for people with dementia. Make sure that a regular daily routine is established.
- The calmer their environment, the better.
- Daily frustrations should be reduced as much as possible.
- Once again, medication might be a problem. Speak to your loved one’s physician about these types of spells.
Team Members at Rittenhouse Village At Lehigh Valley Know Just What to Do
To ensure that all residents, including those with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other memory-related conditions, are treated with the utmost respect and love, Rittenhouse Village At Lehigh Valley only employs a team of professional caregivers with years of experience. We understand that wandering, screaming, confusion, frustration, and more, are common for confused or delusional individuals.
For people with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other memory-related issues, we, at Rittenhouse Village At Lehigh Valley, know the importance of 24/7 care and observation. That’s why we employ our SHINE Memory Care program in pursuit of appropriate treatment. This helps lead to a quality-of-life improvement for residents involved in the program.
Contact us at 484.212.6577 to find out how your loved one can benefit from our memory care program. Better yet, use our convenient online form to schedule a tour or ask questions.
