Watching a loved one struggle with Alzheimer’s can be a heart-wrenching experience. As the disease progresses, those affected may become increasingly anxious and scared. It can be difficult to see someone you care about in such a state, and you may feel helpless as to how to calm them down.
Before we dive into ways to calm your loved one with Alzheimer’s when they’re scared, it’s important to understand the nature of the disease. Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. As it progresses, it can lead to confusion, disorientation, and fear. People with Alzheimer’s often have difficulty expressing their feelings and communicating effectively, which can make it challenging to ease their fears.
However, there are certain approaches and techniques that can be helpful in calming your loved one in moments of distress. Let’s take a closer look at some of these strategies.
1. Remain calm and patient
The first step in calming your loved one with Alzheimer’s is to remain calm yourself. It’s normal to feel frustrated or overwhelmed when your loved one is scared, but getting agitated or upset will only make the situation worse.
Take a deep breath and try to stay patient. Your loved one may feed off of your energy, so if you remain calm, it can help them feel more at ease.
2. Use a soothing and familiar voice
People with Alzheimer’s may have difficulty understanding complex speech or new information. Therefore, it’s important to use a soothing and familiar tone when speaking to your loved one. Speak slowly and clearly, using simple sentences.
Using a gentle and reassuring tone can help your loved one feel safe and secure. It can also help them understand what you are saying, reducing their anxiety.
3. Validate their feelings
It’s essential to acknowledge your loved one’s feelings, even if they seem irrational or don’t make sense to you. Instead of dismissing their fears, try to validate them by saying things like, “I understand that you’re feeling scared,” or “It’s okay to feel afraid.”
Validating their feelings can help your loved one feel heard and understood, which can bring a sense of comfort and relief.
4. Distract them with a familiar activity
Engaging your loved one in a familiar and enjoyable activity can help redirect their attention and reduce their fear. This could be something as simple as listening to their favorite music, looking through photo albums, or going for a walk.
Familiar activities can bring a sense of comfort and familiarity to your loved one, helping them feel more relaxed.
5. Create a safe and calm environment
People with Alzheimer’s can become easily agitated by loud noises, bright lights, or cluttered spaces. As such, creating a calming environment can help reduce their anxiety.
Dim the lights, keep the noise level low, and eliminate any potential triggers that may cause fear or confusion for your loved one.
6. Use touch therapy
Physical touch can be incredibly soothing for people with Alzheimer’s. Holding their hand, giving them a hug, or gently rubbing their back can provide a sense of comfort and security.
However, it’s important to be mindful of your loved one’s personal boundaries and only use touch therapy if they are receptive to it.
7. Consider medication
If your loved one’s fear and anxiety are severe and impacting their daily life, it may be worth discussing medications with their doctor. There are certain medications that can help manage anxiety and calm the mind. However, it’s essential to consult with a medical professional before starting any medication.
In conclusion, caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be challenging, especially when they experience fear and anxiety. However, by remaining calm and patient, using a soothing voice, validating their feelings, engaging in familiar activities, creating a safe environment, using touch therapy, and considering medication if necessary, you can help calm your loved one when they’re scared.
Remember to also take care of yourself and seek support from family, friends, or a support group. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is not an easy task, and it’s crucial to prioritize your own well-being as well. With love, patience, and understanding, you can help your loved one navigate through their fears and provide them with a sense of comfort and security.
