Aging persons with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia often experience personality changes and cognitive impairment that cause irritability and mood swings.

Angry outbursts and aggression are common with dementia, and it may get worse as the condition progresses.

Also, anxiety and depression that often develop in seniors may cause your loved one to lash out with aggression.

Other factors that can cause behavior changes to involve:

• Chronic or unmanaged pain
• Lack of sleep
• Underlying medical issues
• An adverse reaction to a medication

Managing mood swings and anger in the elderly with dementia can be very difficult. So, learning about anger prevention and management can help relieve caregiver stress and make caregiving easier.

Try to stay calm when your elderly mother starts acting angry. Don’t reason with them about their behavior, as this can only make things worse.

Keep your parent’s surroundings safe and calm, providing structure and routine at all times. Predictability and structure give a sense of familiarity and can have a calming effect.

If your mother’s angry outburst won’t calm down, contact her health provider for advice and medications.