Alzheimers Information

In a poll in Toronto on Alzheimer’s support issues, just over 500 caregivers were asked about the level of aggression of their family members suffering from Alzheimer’s.The majority of those caregivers had observed agitation while approximately one-third had
seen aggression towards themselves.

These caregivers also reported a very high incidence of mood swings and disorientation and almost 23 percent said they had been scared or threatened by their patient’s behavior.The interesting part of the report suggested that those in caregiver roles were somewhat comfortable talking to others (outside the immediate family) about disorientation and mood swings but drew the line when it came to aggressive behavior – not wanting to talk about these with non-family members.

It is also reported that caregivers reported extra fatigue, difficulties with sleeping, head aches, and weight gain.

Bottom line:

It’s pretty tough to talk about one of your loved ones when their behavior is clearly aggressive or anti-social.

And this is the time caregivers really need support.It’s a tough role to be in for sure but understand that others are dealing with similar issues and are just as reticent to discuss it as you are.