What to do when someone with Alzheimer's acts

At some point in the course of the disease, people with Alzheimer's may become physically aggressive, although this does not occur as often as popular wisdom says. They may sometimes throw things, hit, kick, bite, or pinch the caregiver or others they come into contact with.

Recognize that acting out is often a symptom of the disease

People with Alzheimer's may not know why they are doing this, and they may not even realize that they are doing it. Nonetheless, these displays of behavior can be very frightening. Try to remember that these behaviors are probably an indication that the person with Alzheimer's is very upset about something.

When it looks like he is getting upset, and may seem to be spoiling for a fight, perhaps using threatening language, you may feel frightened and tempted to fight back. Try to stay calm, use a reassuring tone, and distract the person.

Usually, your friend or relative will calm down in a few minutes if you do not bother him.

Take steps to avoid injury

Don't try to restrain the person. This could cause serious injury to both of you.

1. Get out of striking distance. Step away so that he cannot reach you.

2. Call for help if you need it. You can call a friend, family member, or neighbor to help you get the person calmed down. If you have to, you can also call 911 or your local emergency number.

3. Try to avoid creating a situation in which the person will feel threatened. This will only make him more upset. When things have calmed down figure out what has set him off using the ABC method. What seems like violent behavior may be the way he's responding to changes in his brain or to events that he doesn't understand, and interprets as dangerous in some way. These might be an unfamiliar person entering the room, attempts to take something away from him, fear of being hurt, an exaggerated response to something happening suddenly, not knowing how to express anger appropriately, or just an effort to avoid complying with a demand.

It is easy to forget that what you think is a very natural way to behave may seem frightening or threatening to a confused person with dementia. The positive approach described in the ABC method may help avoid these distressing events.