As people get older, they face different physical, mental, and social problems that can make them angry and frustrated. It’s important to remember that anger is normal, but when it gets out of hand or hurts their health or relationships, they need help and guidance. Seniors get what they need when loved ones and their in-home care team work together and follow a few simple tips to help them process their anger.
Open Communication
Encourage seniors to talk openly about how they feel. Make a safe place where they can talk about their feelings and worries without fear of being judged. This can help them work through their anger and make it less powerful.
Active Listening
Learn how to listen actively to determine why they might be angry. Some seniors may be angry because they are sad, lonely, or scared. Loved ones should validate how they feel and show seniors they care.
Identify Triggers
The in-home care team can help seniors determine what makes them angry. This could be bodily pain, trouble remembering things, feeling alone, or anger over changes in their abilities. Once causes are known, steps can be taken to lessen their effect.
Teach Coping Skills
Giving seniors effective ways to deal with their anger, such as deep breathing, being present, counting to ten, or doing a favorite activity, helps them clear their minds and calm down.
Encourage Physical Activity
Regular physical exercise can make seniors feel much better and less angry. An excellent option for seniors is to do gentle exercises like walking, yoga, or Tai Chi. They can attend classes within the community, work out watching videos online, or work out with their in-home care team.
Encourage Socialization
Loneliness and being on their own can make seniors angry. Participating in social activities, clubs, or support groups can help them feel like they fit in and lessen negative emotions.
Seek Professional Help
If they can’t control their anger and it’s hurting their quality of life, they might need to talk to a mental health professional. A therapist or counselor who has worked with seniors can give them specific ways to deal with anger and improve their mental health.
Mediation and Conflict Resolution
The in-home care team can teach seniors how to talk about how they feel in a way that doesn’t make problems worse. This can be especially helpful when misunderstandings or disagreements with family, guardians, or friends cause anger.
Healthy Lifestyle
When seniors aim for a healthy way of life, including eating well, getting enough sleep, and drinking enough water, they can work through anger better. However, making these choices can be challenging if they live a different life. The in-home care team can help by creating healthy food plans, encouraging dehydration, and assisting seniors to maintain a good sleep schedule.
Remember that dealing with anger problems in seniors takes time and work. The biggest thing is giving seniors unconditional support and helping them learn healthy ways to deal with their emotions can make a big difference in their general health and relationships. With help from loved ones and the in-home care team, they get what they need.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering In-Home Care in Wantagh, NY please contact the caring staff at Brookville Homecare today. 516-802-7722