My grandmother is getting upset and very agitated when she hears or watches anything. She is putting Biblical meanings to songs, tv shows, news, etc. It's bad for her heart (and mine because we are both stressed out). She feels she has done something wrong and is being punished by God. I took her to a doctor, who only gave her a prescription for a sedative. (Ativan) I don't want to give her more medicine or make her more groggy. At times, she seems relaxed and can talk more normally. I am afraid to leave her alone, (because she may get upset over something) and the rest of our family is too far away to help. I live with her, and I don't know what else to do to calm her. Any advice is appreciated, thanks
The changes won't happen overnight, but daily practice for just a few minutes (ten or 15) may give your grandmother a great deal of peace. I hope all of this gets better for both of you. Your grandmother is blessed to have someone who cares about her. :) Rebecca
I would also suggest limiting cable TV and radio broadcasts, especially the news (which agitates ME and I'm not elderly). Instead, use DVDs and audio tapes that you know you can screen for content. Movies, music and radio shows that were popular when she was young may help soothe her nerves and stimulate positive memories.
Pastoral or other counseling is always a good idea for all of us during challenging times; however, as we approach our own deaths and we have unresolved issues, this can manifest in a variety of ways. Perhaps there is something troubling her from her past or she is simply adjusting to aging, physical decline and the spiritual concerns that go with it. Find someone soon so she can begin to do the talk therapy she needs to come to terms with whatever is troubling her.
Hope this helps...best wishes
Elaine T.
My dad has been a priest most of his life......prayer is great but many times anxiety and depression are physiological and not psychological and simply require meds to address. I think Haldol is a little over the top for an elderly person). I have had reason to look into this and know that Ativan, when taken properly, is designed to relieve anxiety. I personally didn't get great results from it....but I'm not even close to 94. It also has a tendency to lower blood pressure so that should be monitored. It usually lasts from 8-10 hours and has a shorter half life than say, Xanax. A good geriatric doc will know what to do.
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