Living longer can be a complex process, and just as our physical selves change over time, so do our personalities. Personality and mood changes are common aspects of aging and are influenced by physical, emotional, and social factors.
While some changes are simply part of life’s natural rhythm, others may signal underlying concerns that deserve attention. For example, if an older adult seems more withdrawn or irritable, this can be commonly caused by things like grief, chronic pain, or even cognitive decline.
You can support your loved one through these changes and get them the resources they need to help them remain happy and healthy no matter what.
Why Do Personality Changes Happen in Older Adults?
Personality changes in older age can stem from several factors, many of which influence behavior, mood, and outlook. Here’s a closer look at some of these factors:
Impact of Physical & Emotional Changes
Changes in physical ability can challenge a person’s sense of independence and well-being. These challenges may lead to frustration, irritability, or even withdrawal. Similarly, significant life events can introduce grief and loneliness, leaving individuals feeling emotionally vulnerable.
This might lead an older adult to seem more withdrawn or low-energy. Luckily, strong social connections can protect older adults from some of the negative effects of this emotional vulnerability. Try being a safe space for the older adult in your life to talk about how they’ve been feeling.
Cognitive Decline & Its Role in Personality Changes
Cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, directly impact the brain areas responsible for memory and emotions. This can cause confusion, anxiety, or agitation, which may lead to personality changes. For example, someone who was previously independent might begin seeking constant reassurance or displaying uncharacteristic emotional outbursts.
If this is the case, doing things for the older adult in your life, like creating consistent routines, being compassionate, and recruiting professional help, can support your loved one with cognitive decline and help lessen the anxiety and confusion causing their personality changes.
Social Dynamics & Childlike Behaviors
Sometimes, older adults begin displaying childlike tendencies. This can manifest in forms like needing frequent reassurance, seeking comfort, or expressing emotions more freely (and sometimes dramatically).
Environmental factors such as retirement, reduced social circles, or feelings of insecurity can often amplify these behaviors. On a neurological level, cognitive challenges may cause individuals to “revert” to earlier developmental stages as they seek familiarity and safety.
If your loved one is showing signs of age regression, they may need to be screened for things like Alzheimer’s and dementia. If cognitive decline isn’t the problem, take some time to talk to your loved one about their environment or anything that is causing them stress, and consider helping them find mental health counseling.
The Grumpy Stereotype Debunked
We’ve all heard the stereotype about older adults being grumpy or irritable, but the truth behind these mood shifts is far more layered and worth understanding. Common contributory factors include:
- Health concerns: Chronic pain can make anyone short-tempered. Ignoring discomfort can lead to irritability or low moods.
- Cognitive decline: Communication difficulties brought on by dementia may cause individuals to resort to irritation or stubbornness when they feel misunderstood.
- Feelings of loss: Reduced independence, whether physical or cognitive, can foster frustration and lead to behaviors perceived as stubbornness.
- Medication side effects: Some treatments for age-related medical conditions can inadvertently affect mood and behavior.
Understanding these nuances can help you empathize with a loved one while addressing the root causes of their behavioral changes.
How to Support a Loved One Through These Changes
Caregiving during this life stage requires a great deal of adaptability, compassion, and knowledge. If an older loved one’s personality or emotional state seems to shift, here are practical strategies you can use to help:
Educate Yourself
Knowledge is empowerment. Learn more about cognitive decline and aging and the behavioral challenges that may accompany them. Books, seminars, and support groups geared toward families and caregivers are excellent resources.
Create a Routine
Stability is a powerful antidote to confusion and anxiety. Establishing a general daily rhythm can provide comfort and clarity. Incorporate favorite hobbies or activities to brighten your loved one’s days and rekindle familiarity.
Encourage Mental & Physical Engagement
Stimulating both the mind and body can slow the effects of cognitive decline and uplift moods. Activities like chair yoga, light walks, puzzles, and memory games offer simple yet impactful ways to encourage engagement.
Practice Patience & Adaptability
Change can be unpredictable, especially when it comes to behavioral fluctuations. Some days will call for flexibility, while others may require you to set gentle boundaries. Remember, consistency in your care and kindness makes a world of difference.
When Memory Care Becomes Essential
Conditions like dementia often progress over time, and growing care needs may exceed what can reasonably be managed at home. When this happens, memory care facilities provide safety, routine, and personalized support tailored to each person’s needs.
What Is Memory Care?
Memory care is a specialized type of long-term care for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. Staff members are trained to offer both the physical and emotional support needed to address residents’ unique challenges. Benefits of memory care include:
- Safety and comfort: Physical spaces are designed to minimize risk and maximize ease of movement.
- Stimulating activities: From memory-focused games to art classes, these activities nurture emotional well-being and cognitive engagement.
- Peace of mind for families: Memory care fosters communication by keeping families informed and included, ensuring loved ones are cared for with warmth and dignity.
If your loved one’s needs are increasing, consider touring a memory care community in your area to explore options for their next stage of care.
Supporting Change with Compassion
Living longer is a deeply individual experience, and the personality shifts that come with it demand patience, kindness, and understanding. By staying informed and remaining present for your loved ones, you can help ease their path while ensuring their dignity and unique personality always shine through.
At Juniper Village at Guadalupe Riverfront, we want to support your loved one through their third act, whatever changes that brings. Schedule a tour today to see if our community is the right fit.