Can Lewy Body Dementia Cause Aggression?

Lewy body dementia is a complex neurodegenerative disease that can affect both cognition and behavior. One of the most challenging aspects for both the affected individual and their loved ones is the mood and behavioral changes that may occur, including aggression. But why does aggression arise, and how can it be managed effectively?

Why Can Lewy Body Dementia Cause Aggression?

Aggression in individuals with Lewy body dementia can have multiple causes. The disease affects the brain in ways that lead to both cognitive and emotional changes. Some of the most common factors behind aggressive behavior include:

• Hallucinations and Delusions: Many individuals with Lewy body dementia experience visual hallucinations and paranoid delusions, which can lead to fear and subsequent aggressive reactions.
• Confusion and Disorientation: Difficulty in understanding their surroundings can make a person feel threatened and react with anger.
• Sleep Problems and Fatigue: Sleep disturbances are common in Lewy body dementia and can lead to irritability and decreased impulse control.
• Pain or Physical Discomfort: If the person has trouble expressing pain or discomfort, it can result in outwardly aggressive behavior.
• Medication Side Effects: Some medications used to treat dementia symptoms can have side effects that impact mood and behavior.

How Can Aggression Manifest?

Aggression can present in different ways depending on the individual and the stage of the disease. Common signs may include:

• Verbal outbursts such as shouting, swearing, or threats.
• Physically aggressive behavior, such as pushing or hitting.
• Refusing to cooperate with daily activities such as personal hygiene or meals.
• Sudden mood swings without an apparent cause.

Strategies for Managing Aggression

Handling aggression in someone with Lewy body dementia can be challenging, but several strategies can help:

1. Create a Safe Environment

Try to reduce factors that may cause stress and anxiety. A calm and familiar environment can make a significant difference. Avoid loud noises, bright lighting, and sudden changes in routine.

2. Identify and Avoid Triggers

Observe when aggression occurs and try to identify patterns. Does it happen at certain times of the day? Does it occur during specific activities? Understanding what triggers the behavior can help you adjust the environment and routines accordingly.

3. Communicate Calmly and Clearly

Use a calm tone and short, clear sentences. Avoid arguing or confronting the person, as this may increase frustration.

4. Seek Medical Assistance When Needed

If aggression becomes difficult to manage, consult a doctor. There may be medications or treatment options that can reduce symptoms without causing excessive side effects.

5. Support for Caregivers

Caring for someone with Lewy body dementia can be emotionally exhausting. Seeking support from healthcare professionals, support groups, or counseling can help caregivers manage the situation more effectively.

Sensorem’s personal alarm has GPS positioning, medication reminders and automatic fall alarm

Sensorem’s personal alarm is an example of a technical aid specially developed for people with dementia. The personal alarm works outdoors and has built-in GPS positioning so that relatives can see the user’s position on a map in the Sensorem app. Relatives are automatically called by the personal alarm (two-way communication) if the user leaves a predetermined geographical area. The personal alarm also has medication reminders, which means that the watch emits a sound and tells the user that it is time to take their medication. The personal alarm can also alert automatically in the event of a fall with the built-in fall sensor.