Hallucinations in dementia patients can be expressed in many different ways. Some examples include your loved ones thinking someone stole their belongings or something is touching them. Or they may think they are hearing something but actually, it is just a hallucination. These are common scenarios as hallucinations in dementia patients are often expressed in these warped perceptions. It can be challenging for the caretaker to deal with hallucinations in dementia patients. Hence, we provide a conducive environment for your loved ones, with quality living conditions to help them deal with hallucinations.
What Are Hallucinations in Dementia Patients
In general, hallucinations in dementia patients are often caused by an abnormal occurrence in someone else’s mind. Hallucinations in dementia patients often trigger one or more of the five physical senses. This may cause them to see, hear, feel or smell something that may not be there. The reason for hallucinations in dementia patients is because dementia often results in the brain’s condition deteriorating. As the brain condition deteriorates, it may affect the mental faculties of the brain and cause them to sense something but isn’t real. However, as difficult as it may be, especially when there are emotional outbursts, there are various ways to deal with hallucinations in dementia patients.
Reassure the Patient
For the caretaker, it can be tempting to try and correct or control the patient. However, it’s not as simple as just telling someone with a hallucination that something is not there. So instead of telling them it doesn’t exist, reassure them. Do not try and reason with them and correct their “belief”. Respect them for it, even if it may seem counterintuitive. For example, if the hallucinations in dementia patients involve them thinking there is a fire, reassure them that it’s safe and direct them to a ‘safe” place and assure them that the firemen are coming. Hence, it’s important to be fluid in how you reassure them. Be creative if there’s a need!
Respond to the Environment
Often, there is a reason why the hallucinations are triggered, and that’s because of something in the environment that caused them to trigger their five senses. It could be excessive lightings or loud noises. But it’s important to be aware of the physical triggers and respond to them by eliminating them. For example, if your loved ones are experiencing a hallucination, try and see if there are any potential triggers, such as loud noises, and eliminate them.
Refocus on Something Else
Sometimes, it may be intuitive for us to try and argue with our loved ones when they are hallucinating. This is because deep down, we may be eager to resolve the issue. Rather than attacking the problem, try and refocus on something else. For example, you can buy them a soft toy to play around with or even get a pet. By refocusing on something, they can be less agitated and be soothed easily.
Caruth Haven Court
At Caruth Haven Court, we provide a wide range of services, such as emergency call systems services and personal care assistance. Hallucinations in dementia patients can be dealt with, starting with us. Contact us to find out more!
