It’s incredibly upsetting to have your senior verbally or even physically lash out at you. This can happen for a variety of different reasons, so it helps to have some idea why it might be happening so you can do whatever is in your power to help.

She’s Uncomfortable or in Pain.

Discomfort or pain can make anyone a little cranky, especially your aging adult. If she’s uncomfortable or in pain often, this takes a greater toll. The problem can be exacerbated even further if she’s unable to communicate with you clearly. Try seeking out signs that she’s uncomfortable or hurting and do what you can to alleviate the issue.

She’s in an Unfamiliar Place.

For some people, literally being out of their comfort zone can be a triggering event. If your elderly family member doesn’t get out much, she may find being in an unfamiliar location to be something that creates a stressful situation for her. She can react unpredictably in that situation.

There’s Too Much Going On.

When there’s a lot happening, you might find your own temper shortening, too. It’s not unusual for busy situations to create an atmosphere in which your senior is not as agreeable as she otherwise might be. Toning down the extra activities can help, if that’s within your control.

She’s Frustrated.

Aging family members have a lot to be frustrated about, honestly. They may not be able to communicate easily what’s going on with them and they may not be able to do things they’ve always been able to do. Think about how frustrating it is for you to write with the opposite hand from the one you usually write with. That can give you some idea where your senior’s frustrations come from.

She’s Tired, Afraid, or Simply Done.

Other emotions and experiences can factor into this experience, too. If your elderly family member is nervous, tired, afraid, or just out of energy to deal with what’s going on, she might lash out as her only way to cope for right now. You can try checking in periodically with your aging adult to see how she’s doing and see what you can adjust for her as a means of avoiding this.

If you’re still having a difficult time figuring out why your senior is sometimes mean to you or to other people, home care providers can help. They have plenty of experience with helping aging adults and their caregivers. They can help you to narrow down potential causes.

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Sugar Land, TX, contact the caring staff at Personal Caregiving Services at 832-564-0338. Providing Care in Houston, Bellaire, West University Place, Katy, and Sugar Land and the surrounding areas.