Dealing with Elderly Anger Outbursts

Why do some old people get angry? Anger hostility in elders can come from a variety of sources and can cause negative side effects. However, there are ways to effectively deal with elderly tantrums and general anger in old age. In this post, we will review the following questions about age and anger:

• Why are old people so angry?
• What are the effects of bad temper in old age?
• How do you deal with elderly anger outbursts?

What Causes Anger Outbursts in Elderly?

Why are some old people irritable? Sudden anger in elderly does not come from nowhere and understanding the reason can make it easier to help them. Some causes of anger outbursts in elderly include:

• Anxiety and stress. Changes in physical abilities, health issues, losing loved ones or financial issues can often trigger emotional outbursts.
• Dementia. Older adults with advanced dementia can sometimes have angry outbursts if they can no longer verbalize their needs. They can also react in such a way if they’re confused or scared.
• Medication side effects. Certain anti-anxiety meds, antidepressants and mood stabilizers can contribute to angry outbursts. Be sure to talk to a doctor if these angry outbursts occurred shortly after the medication was prescribed.
• Social isolation. When older adults experience social isolation — either as they lose loved ones or as they feel disconnected from their communities — they can experience depression. This sense of sadness and hopelessness can lead to emotional outbursts.
• Quality-of-life issues. Concerns about worsening health issues, physical limitations, and overall care from well-meaning family members may cause older adults to be frustrated or on edge.

Next, let’s take a look at some of the health problems associated with angry seniors.

What Are the Effects of Increased Anger in the Elderly?

Mood swings in elderly can cause several negative effects on health. Angry old people can often have an elevated heart rate, increased blood pressure, and numerous other intense symptoms. Additionally, one study from the American Psychological Association found that anger can lead to increased inflammation, which can in turn lead to heart disease, arthritis, and other issues. Now that we know more about old age and anger, let’s review some tips for dealing with an angry old person.

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5 Tips for Dealing with Anger in the Elderly

Elderly anger management can be achieved through a variety of ways. These include:

• Remain calm. Getting angry in response can often make the behavior worse. Try to remain patient and ensure you are a soothing presence in the person’s life.
• Validate their feelings. Sometimes, older adults may feel as if they are not being heard. Listen to them and let them know their feelings are valid.
• Help them express their emotions in a healthy way. This can be through creative outlets such as writing, or talking to someone they trust.
• Get professional help. If these outbursts are occurring more frequently, it can be wise to seek professional help. Professionals can help identify underlying conditions that may be contributing to the behavior.
• Check in about chronic pain. Speak to your loved one’s doctor to ensure they’re not suffering from unseen physical pain, such as a urinary tract infection.

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