August 2, 2024
Taking care of a loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease can be particularly difficult, especially when seniors exhibit paranoia, delusions, or hallucinations. Learning how to respond to these issues is easier with the support of Alzheimer’s care. This collaboration helps both seniors and their loved ones, ensuring everyone gets the support they need.
When seniors have a hallucination, they see, hear, or feel things that are not there. This can be scary and confusing for them, as well as for those caring for them. Delusions are incorrect ideas that are firmly believed in spite of opposing information. For example, seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease may feel threatened or that someone is robbing them without any valid evidence pointing toward this. The third issue, paranoia, is an extreme mistrust or suspicion of others—even those closest to them. Unfortunately, this issue might also increase aggression, anxiety, or dread.
As mentioned, the situations above can be frightening for everyone involved. However, there are tips that loved ones can incorporate with the support of Alzheimer’s care, including the ones below:
Remain Composed and Comforting: It’s important for loved ones to remain calm in these situations. Additionally, they should gently let loved ones know they’re safe by speaking in a calm tone. It is best to avoid arguing with seniors during this time or attempting to dispel their delusions or hallucinations, because doing so may make them feel even more distressed.
Carefully Offer Validation: It’s important to acknowledge and validate seniors’ sentiments while not validating the hallucination or delusion itself. For instance, loved ones might say something like, “I see you’re scared. What can I do to make you feel secure?” The Alzheimer’s care team can also provide examples for further clarification.
Distraction and Redirection: Try gently guiding seniors’ focus to another area. For instance, to ease their discomfort, switch up the activities they are doing or the setting.
Assure Safety: Environment is key. Loved ones can examine the area for any possible dangers or triggers that can make seniors feel more anxious, as well as use soothing music and familiarity to create a relaxing atmosphere.
Speak with Medical Professionals: It’s important for loved ones to record the frequency and times of these incidents for the medical team. This helps ensure the Alzheimer’s care plan matches seniors’ needs and lets the medical staff investigate possible reasons or make prescription changes.
Support Groups and Education: Participating in support groups and reading about Alzheimer’s care can be beneficial for loved ones. These forums offer insightful information, coping mechanisms, and emotional support from people who have been in the same situations.
Professional Care Services: Loved ones might also consider adding to the resources seniors have to ensure they get the individualized care and assistance they need. There are many home care services available that can be added to Alzheimer’s care to ensure seniors have well-rounded support.
Taking care of a loved one struggling with Alzheimer’s disease calls for patience, empathy, and a thorough grasp of how to handle paranoia, delusions, and hallucinations. With Alzheimer’s care in place, family members can significantly contribute to the reduction of discomfort and improvement of the quality of life of seniors by keeping the above tips in consideration.
