It can be one of the most upsetting things about being a family caregiver. You’re consumed with the care of your mom. You spend hours helping her, taking over household chores, driving her to medical appointments, struggling with her personal care. Yet instead of thanks, you may be met with accusations: “You’ve taken my purse! You’re stealing my money.” Then, as usual, after a few minutes’ search, the purse turns up under the pillow, where Mom hid and forgot it.
Delusions—fixed, false ideas—are quite common with Alzheimer’s disease and the other dementias. Often, they can simply be caused by the very nature of the disease and the damage to the brain caused by dementia. It may be possible that mother hid her purse “to keep it safe.” However, she forgets that she put in under the pillow so now it’s missing. You are the only person who has visited; therefore, you must be the guilty party.
Likewise, mistaken identity, another common delusion, can be caused by forgetfulness. As painful as it may be, your father may not remember what his wife, daughter, or son look like, so he no longer recognizes them. Or, forgetful and confused, he may think he is 40 years old, not 80, and so may mistake his grandson for his son.
Sometimes delusions are more mysterious. A person with dementia may decide that the neighbors have moved the fence in six feet during the night or that someone is constantly breaking into the house.
In any case, delusions can be frightening and painful for both the individual living with dementia and their loved ones. If you are caring for someone who is experiencing delusions, consider these tips:
- Try not to overreact or get upset, even if, like the false accusation, the delusion is upsetting. Remember, a real disease is attacking the brain. It’s the disease at work, not the person.
- In cases of mistaken identity, try offering some gentle cues. “Gosh, honey, it’s me, Mary, your wife!” You can help maintain another’s dignity by saying, “You’ve got such a sense of humor” or “I know I look young enough to be your daughter.”
- Let the person know you have heard his or her concern. “Mom, I’m so sorry your purse is missing. That is upsetting. Let’s look around just in case it accidentally got misplaced.” You can then celebrate with a big smile and hug when you “find” the purse.
- “Tell me about that purse. Is it the red one or blue one?” Asking additional questions can allow the person to tell you more about worries and concerns.
- Don’t argue. You can almost never talk the person out of a belief or concern or convince him that he or she is wrong. If your family member thinks the fence has been moved, say that you will work on getting to the bottom of the situation or call the county to investigate.
- Take advantage of the passage of time. Sometimes your best efforts will fail and the person will continue to express the delusion. If you provide ongoing reassurance and take a low-key approach, these delusions will go away on their own.
Delusions can be one of the most challenging symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. If they become overwhelming, consider consulting a professional. Reach out to the person’s doctor, a geriatric care manager, or a professional caregiver who has received training in handling dementia related behaviors.
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