Strategies to Calm Agitation and Aggression

How to Calm Someone with Dementia Who is Agitated or Aggressive

Strategies to calm agitation and aggression are important when caring for people with dementia. These behaviours can be upsetting but they often happen because of confusion, fear, or pain. Understanding how to respond calmly and safely helps keep both the person with dementia and the carer safe.

First, stay calm and speak in a soft, gentle voice. Your tone can help reduce the person’s stress. Avoid arguing or raising your voice, as this can make aggression worse.

Try to find out what might be causing the agitation. Look for problems such as hunger, thirst, pain, needing to use the toilet, or feeling too hot or cold. Sometimes physical discomfort can cause upset behaviours.

Key Strategies to Calm Agitation and Aggression

• Approach calmly: Move slowly and from the front so you don’t surprise the person.
• Use simple language: Give clear, short instructions or reassurance.
• Offer comfort: Gentle touch, holding their hand, or a familiar object can help.
• Remove triggers: Loud noises, crowds, or bright lights may increase agitation.
• Redirect attention: Change the activity to something calming like listening to music or looking at photos.
• Ensure safety: Keep dangerous items out of reach and create a safe space.
• Give space: If the person wants to be alone, respect that while watching from a distance.

If the person is aggressive, protect yourself and others but do not respond with anger or force. Instead, try to guide them away calmly. If the behaviour continues, seek help from a healthcare professional.

Remember, these behaviours are part of dementia and not intentional. Patience and understanding go a long way. Using these practical strategies to calm agitation and aggression improves the quality of care and helps reduce stress for everyone involved.