Behavior frequently changes as a natural part of getting older. Nevertheless, it’s normal to be worried if you start to observe unusual or concerning behavioural changes in your elderly parent. Here, we discuss some of the most common types of behavioural changes in aging adults and how family caregivers can address them.
1. Memory Issues
Minor instances of memory loss and infrequent episodes of forgetfulness are normal for older adults. However, if your loved one’s memory problems become more serious or occur with increasing frequency, speak with your parent’s physician to find out if specific tests may be required to rule out conditions that lead to cognitive decline, such as Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.
2. Depression
Although depression is common among older adults, it isn’t an inevitable consequence of aging. If your parent displays signs of depression, make an appointment with his or her physician to eliminate the possibility of an undiagnosed issue with his or her physical health. Many people with depression, including older adults, benefit a great deal from medical treatment and various forms of therapy.
3. Lack of Interest
Aging adults may begin to seem apathetic or unenthusiastic about life in general. After ruling out any underlying physical or mental health conditions, speak honestly with your parent to find out if you can come up with some solutions together. For example, if your loved one is indifferent because he or she can’t get out and about as easily as he or she did in the past, suggest using a transportation service for seniors. If your loved one is in need of mental stimulation and companionship, consider hiring a home caregiver.
The regular companionship of a home caregiver can help your loved one alleviate feelings of loneliness and boredom that often lead to apathy. Elder care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
4. Aggressive Behavior
Aggression in aging adults is often associated with dementia, but it can also simply indicate a senior is frustrated or anxious. In many cases, aggressive behaviour can be prevented by being empathetic, communicating clearly, and simply asking your parent what’s upsetting him or her.
If your loved one does have dementia, compassionate, professional care is just a phone call away. Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Waterloo seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Home Care Assistance.
5. Increased Irritability
This milder form of aggression often has a more passive quality, and it’s typically caused by an underlying health or lifestyle issue, such as:
• Insufficient sleep
• Lack of mental and social stimulation
• Chronic discomfort or pain
If your parent is becoming increasingly irritable or cranky, try to identify possible causes. If necessary, schedule physical or dental exams for your loved one to find some solutions that can help you relieve his or her irritability.
6. Thriftiness
Some aging adults become increasingly worried about finances as they get older and start to pinch pennies where they shouldn’t. Seniors may buy inexpensive processed foods that are unhealthy or fail to get prescriptions filled to save money. Behavior changes related to these worries are often based on valid concerns, especially for seniors who live on fixed incomes. If your loved one is stressed about money, he or she may gain peace of mind by getting help from a professional financial advisor, who can help your parent create a budget and ease his or her money-related anxiety.
If you’re concerned about enhancing your loved one’s mental and emotional wellbeing, reach out to Home Care Assistance. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care service. Waterloo, ON, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call Home Care Assistance at (519) 954-2111 today.