Paranoia and delusions can sometimes develop in people who are living withAlzheimer’sor other types of dementia.
What Is Paranoia?
Paranoia is an unrealistic fear or concern that harm is imminent or that others are out to get you.
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Some people experience paranoia if they have a psychiatric disorder like schizophrenia.
Others develop it in relation to different medical conditions, including Alzheimers, other types of dementia ordelirium.
What Are Delusions?
Delusions are fixed (not easily changed) false beliefs.
Example
Alzheimers can change the way others are perceived.
The incidence may be increased in those who have a history of abuse or trauma.
Delusions appear to be more common invascular dementiaas well as in Parkinsons-related dementia anddementia with Lewy bodies.
Could Paranoia or Delusions Be a Sign of Delirium?
How Can You Decrease the Likelihood of Paranoid Delusions?
Be careful what television shows are playing in the background.
For the person with Alzheimers, the line between reality and fantasy can easily become blurred.
Ensure that your loved one is receiving the correct medication doses.
Too much or too little medication can affect a persons mental and emotional stability.
If youre providing care for someone in a facility, make a run at keep theroutineas consistent as possible.
A regular rhythm of the day and familiar, consistent caregivers help reduce anxiety and stress for people.
Older adults can be vulnerable to different types of abuse, including financial and physical.
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