Signs of increasing anxiety & strategies for managing increasing anxiety

1. Head: Loss of eye contact: Avoiding eye contact or looking away may indicate that the resident is feeling anxious or uncomfortable.

2. Arms and hands: Repetitive movements, wringing hands, clenched fists: These physical behaviors may indicate that the resident is feeling anxious or agitated.

3. Legs and body: Repetitive movements, increase in motor activity, such as frequent changes in position or pacing: The resident may feel restless or anxious if they are pacing or frequently changing positions.

4. Voice and speech: Change in tone of voice, repetitive sounds, crying, complaining: Changes in the resident's speech, such as speaking more softly or quickly, or repeating words or phrases, may indicate increasing anxiety.

Additional strategies for managing increasing anxiety in residents include:

1. Provide a calm and reassuring presence: Remaining calm and offering reassurance can help the resident feel more secure and reduce anxiety.

2. Identify triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers that cause anxiety can help reduce the risk of behavioral symptoms.

3. Offer distraction: Providing enjoyable or calming activities can help redirect the resident's attention and reduce anxiety.

4. Use relaxation techniques: Breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery can help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

5. Consider medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage anxiety, but it should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.