Understanding Hallucinations, Delusions and Paranoia With Dementia

Nov 6, 2023 | Video

Hallucinations, Delusions and Paranoia With Dementia

Hallucinations, delusions and paranoia are all symptoms that individuals with dementia commonly experience. It can be distressing to witness these types of behaviors in a loved one, but you can help by understanding each of these symptoms, their differences, and how to manage them.


 

Hallucinations

“Hallucination” is a term for sensory experiences that are caused by changes in the brain. Hallucinations can cause someone to see, hear, smell, taste or hear something that isn’t actually there. In individuals with dementia, hallucinations are usually in the form of a misinterpreted sight or sound.

Delusions

Delusions are persistent beliefs held by someone, despite any evidence to the contrary they may see. Many people living with dementia experience delusions in the form of paranoia.

Paranoia

Paranoia, an extreme distrust of others, is very common with dementia. It can be hurtful when your loved one doesn’t trust you, but you must remember that they can’t help it.

How To Help Someone With Dementia Experiencing Hallucinations, Delusions or Paranoia

Talk, Acknowledge and Reassure

To the person experiencing a hallucination or delusion, what they’re seeing is very real. For example, someone with dementia might think a tree outside their bedroom window is someone looking in at them – an understandably frightening experience! Acknowledge and try to understand your loved one’s fear or worry. Reassure them that everything is ok.

Offer an Explanation

Don’t upset your loved one further by trying to convince them that what they’re experiencing isn’t real. Instead, offer a calm explanation for what might have happened. If you’re being accused of something, stay calm and do not try to defend yourself. Instead, keep your answers simple and supportive and, if necessary, change the subject.

Avoid Further Distress

Don’t assume your loved one is merely delusional. Make sure that they are safe by always giving them the benefit of the doubt.

Related article: Celebrating Our Parents With Dementia

Is It Time To Ask For Help?

It’s understandable that you want to take care of your loved one, but we all need a little help sometimes. The behavior changes that often come with dementia can be overwhelming for even the best caretakers.

If you could use a little help, schedule your visit online or by calling 512-399-5080.

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Let’s be honest. Senior care has increasingly become a business. A formula really, with frequent changes in ownership and management, slick marketing pitches, poor care quality, high staff turnover, and a corporate approach that treats residents like a commodity. Sundara is locally owned and operated by a team focused on making a difference; a real difference that families and their loved ones can appreciate. We are not in the business of selling fancy real estate with hyped-up programs and spa services. We don’t provide care from a menu. We don’t have a slew of add-on fees or upcharges. What we do have is a team of owners that share a 12-year history together and unmatched levels of accountability, consistency and flexibility. We also operate from a simple care philosophy based on the premise that residents are a part of our family…NOT a commodity. We look forward to getting to know you and your family. Real care by real people for real families.
Request an Appointment
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