08/12/2026
When a loved one with dementia becomes agitated, it's easy to feel yourself becoming overwhelmed too.
A raised voice.
A refusal to cooperate.
An unexpected outburst.
Your instinct may be to react.
But one of the most powerful tools in dementia care is learning to **respond instead of react.**
Before saying anything, try this:
💙 Pause.
💙 Lower your voice.
💙 Slow your movements.
💙 Give them a little space.
💙 Acknowledge what they're feeling before trying to solve the problem.
Instead of saying, *"Calm down!"*
Try saying,
*"I can see you're frustrated. I'm here with you. Let's figure this out together."*
Many times, agitation is a form of communication.
It may be caused by pain, fear, confusion, overstimulation, hunger, fatigue, or simply feeling overwhelmed.
When we stay calm, we help create an environment where our loved one has a better chance of calming down too.
❤️ **I'd love to hear from you...**
**What has helped you de-escalate a difficult moment with your loved one?**
Or, if you're new to caregiving, **what situations do you find the most challenging?**
Your experience could provide encouragement and practical advice for another caregiver who needs it today.
If you're caring for someone living with dementia, **follow our page** for practical caregiving tips, expert guidance, and compassionate support to help you navigate every stage of the journey.