We all have good days and bad days, and we’re all entitled to a little negative thinking or crankiness occasionally. If you’re noticing mood swings in seniors, however, such as a pattern of ongoing negativity and complaining, it’s worth exploring whether a health problem could be the reason.
Listed here are several reasons for recurring negativity, and how you can help.
- Urinary tract infections. A UTI’s classic symptoms of pain, burning, and urgency to urinate may include additional effects for seniors, including angry outbursts, confusion, irritability, as well as other alterations in mood or behavior. Talk to the physician to rule out a urinary tract infection if you notice these types of irregular behaviors.
- Pain. A recent research study revealed that participants who were experiencing chronic pain reported an increase in negative moods, including fatigue, anger, tension, depression, anxiety, and more. It’s vital to discuss any of these mood changes with the doctor, as these kinds of mood swings in seniors actually impact the effectiveness of pain management treatments.
- 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, inflammation, and seizures can cause behavioral and personality changes in some people. Again, talk with the physician and go through all of the older adult’s prescriptions to find out if the problem is due to one medication, or perhaps the interaction of multiple medications together.
- Dementia. Mood and personality changes are common in dementia. It’s important 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 choices that can help the person feel calmer and less agitated that you may want to explore.
Negativity can arise from loneliness or boredom, too. Whatever the cause, chronic negativity can wear on a caregiver’s own sense of peace and wellbeing. It is important to be able to step away from your caregiving role on a regular basis, and to make this time away a top priority. The senior will also benefit from the chance to spend time with various friends, family members, or a professional caregiver. These breaks are a healthy part of your caregiver/care receiver relationship – for both of you.
As the leading provider of in-home care in Victoria and the surrounding areas, our caregivers are excellent companions to help brighten the mood of the older adults we serve. All of our caregiving staff are fully trained, background checked, and accomplished in a wide range of home care services for seniors. Contact us online or call 250.590.8098 to learn how we can help someone you love, while allowing you the time needed to rest and rejuvenate.