When the phone rings, it can be startling and confusing for someone with dementia. This sudden noise may trigger anger or agitation for a few reasons.
First, people with dementia often have trouble processing new information and changes in their environment. The ringing phone represents an unexpected disruption to their routine. This can feel overwhelming and lead to an angry outburst as a way of expressing their distress.
Additionally, dementia affects a person’s ability to understand and respond appropriately to stimuli like phone calls. They may not recognize what the ringing means or remember how to answer the phone. This can cause frustration and anger when they feel unable to handle a once-familiar task.
The loud noise itself may also be irritating to someone with dementia, especially if they have increased sensitivity to sounds. An angry reaction could be their way of trying to make the unpleasant noise stop.
In some cases, the person with dementia may feel anxious about who is calling or worry they won’t be able to carry on a conversation. This anticipatory stress can manifest as anger.
It’s also possible that past negative experiences with phone calls have created an association between ringing phones and unpleasant emotions. The person may not consciously remember specific bad calls, but the sound triggers an automatic angry response.
For caregivers, it’s important to recognize that the anger isn’t personal. Try to remain calm and reassuring. You might consider turning off ringers, using visual alerts instead of sounds, or screening calls to reduce disruptions. Creating a quiet, predictable environment can help minimize angry outbursts triggered by unexpected noises like ringing phones.
Remember, the anger is a symptom of the disease, not a reflection of your loved one’s true feelings. With patience and understanding, you can help them feel more secure when dealing with stimuli like phone calls.
