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Needing advice

schilr53
schilr53 Member Posts: 1 New
I am caring for my partner of over 20 years. He developed early onset Alzheimer's about six years ago. He had a seizure shortly after he was diagnosed that affected his speech, so sometimes it is hard for him to communicate. He gets very frustrated because of this. He is also getting unsteady on his feet, which is something new. I have congestive heart failure and don't move as slow as I used to, but we are muddling along. Does anyone have any suggestions as to how to calm him down when he gets frustrated and aggressive?

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  • MariaN26
    MariaN26 Member Posts: 24
    25 Care Reactions 10 Comments 5 Insightfuls Reactions 5 Likes
    Member
    edited 12:52PM

    My DH who is stage 5 gets frustrated and aggressive in his language and his actions. I noticed this happens when he is having trouble getting his thoughts out, if there is too much noise or he is getting tired. One thing I started doing and the doctor says is definitely a good way to handle it is to give him a quiet time. When he starts getting to the point where he is responding aggressively or is getting frustrated, I turn the tv on in the bedroom, put on a show he likes and tell him it is time for him to have some quiet time. This seems to help. The doctor also prescribed two anxiety medicines. One he takes every day and the other I give him only if his aggression and frustration is hitting a higher than usual level. Talk to his doctor about what is happening. Now this is the hard part. When he starts being frustrated and aggressive I have to try not to react which I find is easier when I am not exhausted like I am at the end of the day. Count to ten. Remember it is the disease that is causing it and try to remain calm. If you remain calm, it sometimes helps his behavior not to escalate. Also remember that every solution does not work for everyone. It may take some time to find what works for you and your partner. I journal anything I am having problems with or any new behaviors so I can discuss it with the dr. at his next visit. But remember if you are having a problem and need help you can call the dr and get some advice, medication, etc. And as always you can come here to get support, guidance or just vent.

Commonly Used Abbreviations


DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
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