We all have bad days and good days, and we’re all entitled to a little negative thinking or crankiness every now and then. If you are caring for a senior who seems to have fallen into a pattern of continual complaining and negativity, however, it is worth exploring whether a health issue may be the culprit. A physician can help you determine if mood changes in seniors could be caused by health issues.
At Independence-4-Seniors Home Care, trusted provider of elder care in Lombard and the surrounding areas, we understand how mood changes in seniors can affect the wellbeing of older adults and their family caregivers. We have compiled several reasons for chronic negativity and how you can help.
1. Urinary tract infections (UTIs). A UTI’s classic signs and symptoms of burning, pain, and urgency to urinate can include additional side effects for older adults, including angry outbursts, confusion, irritability, as well as other modifications to behavior or mood. Check with the physician to rule out a urinary tract infection if you notice these kinds of uncharacteristic behaviors.
2. Pain. A recent research study discovered that participants who had been experiencing chronic pain reported an increase in negative moods, including fatigue, anger, tension, depression, anxiety, and more. It’s important to mention any of these mood changes with the physician, as these kinds of mood changes actually impact the effectiveness of pain management treatments.
3. Medication side effects. A number of medications – including those designed to help with mood, such as antidepressants – may cause troublesome mood swings. Medications for hypertension, seizures, and inflammation may cause personality and behavioral alterations in some people. Once again, speak with the doctor, and go through every one of the senior’s prescriptions to find out if the problem is due to one medication or possibly the interaction of multiple medications together.
4. Dementia. Mood and personality changes are common in dementia. It is crucial to realize that these changes are a symptom of the physiological changes in the brain and are not a representation of the person’s own choices and decisions. There are medicinal and natural treatment options that can help the person feel calmer and less agitated that you may desire to explore.
Negativity can arise from boredom or loneliness, too. Whatever the cause, persistent negativity can wear on a caregiver’s own sense of comfort and wellbeing. It is important to be able to step away from your caregiving role on a regular basis and to make that time away a top priority. The senior will also benefit from the opportunity to spend time with various friends, family members, or a professional caregiver. These breaks are a healthy component of your caregiver/care receiver relationship – for both of you.
The caregivers at Independence-4-Seniors Home Care are wonderful companions to help brighten the mood of the seniors we serve. All of our care staff are fully trained, background checked, and accomplished in a wide range of home care services for seniors. Reach out to us at (630) 323-4665 to learn how we can help someone you love, while allowing you the time needed to rest and rejuvenate. We would be happy to discuss your unique needs and to share more about our elder care in Lombard and the surrounding areas.