It is not uncommon for elderly persons suffering with Alzheimer’s or dementia to begin using inappropriate language or “curse words” that they never used before developing the disease. There may be no way to prevent such outbursts, but understanding the cause of the behavior may help elder caregivers to respond in a way that deescalates the behavior.
Why Do Elder Alzheimer’s Sufferers Use Inappropriate Language?
When someone gets angry or frustrated, the brain computes the language used to express those feelings. Normally, people can avoid using inappropriate language to express their feelings because the healthy brain is able to filter the inappropriate language and replaces it with language that is more appropriate. However, if dementia affects the part of the brain that filters and replaces informal language, when the brain directs the person to communicate their feelings of anger or frustration, the only language available to communicate is the unfiltered, inappropriate language.
When the elder dementia sufferer suddenly becomes unable to use language to communicate their feelings, they may become even more frustrated, and the cycle escalates into a stressful exchange.
What Can Caregivers Do?
1. Recognize and Acknowledge the Triggers.
Often there are specific things that may trigger the person with Alzheimer’s to have negative feelings that prompt outbursts of inappropriate language. These could be external factors, like:
- Changes in routine
- Confining or unfamiliar spaces
- Specific people or events
Caregivers should try to identify triggers and avoid those influences by:
- Starting a new conversation
- Moving to a new location
- Interacting with other people
However, inappropriate language also may be prompted by psychological factors that the caregiver cannot control, such as:
- Delusion
- Paranoia
When the triggers cannot be controlled or avoided, caregivers should be prepared to respond in a way that defuses the outburst.
2. Respond Calmly or Ignore the Outburst.
When inappropriate language is used, caregivers should remain calm and simply express that inappropriate language is not acceptable. If the situation seems to be escalating, it may be best to simply ignore the inappropriate outburst if possible.
3. Explain the Inappropriate Behavior to Others Involved.
If the inappropriate language is directed at someone in public who may be offended, try to explain. The Alzheimer’s Association suggests having small business cards available to hand to those nearby that simply read: “My companion has Alzheimer’s. Thank you for understanding.” Being prepared may defuse an uncomfortable situation and minimize embarrassment.
4. Don’t Take It Personally.
Caregivers must understand that this is not their loved one’s fault; they simply do not have the tools necessary to filter the inappropriate language. What they say is not what they mean.
5. Step Away.
If the outburst becomes uncontrollable or abusive, simply step away. This will provide you and your loved one some time to calm down. Of course, before you remove yourself, first make sure your loved one is safe and has appropriate supervision.
Contact your home care provider to learn more about effective ways to respond to inappropriate outbursts or to receive assistance in managing your elderly loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Sources:
https://www.alzconnected.org/archive.aspx?g=posts&t=19607
https://www.verywellhealth.com/foul-language-and-dementia-97610
If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in Cherry Hills, CO, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare Denver. Call today: (303) 756-9322.
