Dealing with Alzheimer’s and Paranoia
Posted by: Brian T. Willie in Health, tags: HealthParanoia and suspicion can create a frightening environment for your loved one, and they are bound to feel this way over seemingly regular activity. You loved one may become more confused and begin to perceive things differently than they once may have.
It is not only their inability to not remember certain people, places and things that causes paranoia, but also the fact that they can’t remember themselves as well. This combination can create a frightening environment for your loved one and they’re bound to grow paranoid and suspicions of seemingly regular activity.
People with Alzheimer’s will often confront their loved ones, accusing them of theft, improper behavior or even infidelity. Many times they’re getting their feelings from ones they’ve had in the past from different people or different times.
It’s also possible that they’re misinterpreting what he or she is hearing or seeing. Because Alzheimer’s patients confuse times, events and people, they may associate an event with the wrong person. For instance, if their ex-husband or wife once cheated on them, they may accuse their new spouse of doing the same.
The key to responding to your loved ones paranoid behavior is patience and understanding. Though it’s easy to become offended by their suspicions, keep in mind that it’s not personal and they’re probably just as confused and hurt as you are. Listen carefully to what they are saying and try to understand their reality.
They are confused and hurt. Listen to them and just try to understand what they are feeling. Don’t argue or convince them they are wrong. Just let them know you love them and you are sorry they feel that way. Let them express their ideas, but always keep your responses short and easy to understand.
You an take their mind off their suspicions by suggesting a different activity that focuses on keeping them occupied. You might even think about buying them two of each item that they often lose, such as a handbag or wallet. This will help keep them from being suspicious that you stole it.
Remember that this behavior will pass, but it’s most important for you to just remain calm and understanding. Never get worked up, because your loved one will feed off of this energy and become more paranoid.
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