Some forms of dementia have hallucinations as a very common symptom, which includes Lewy body dementia, Parkinson’s disease dementia, and advanced Alzheimer’s disease. The hallucinations include seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren’t there and can be both distressing to the individual with dementia and his or her caregiver. Understanding how to respond to and support these loved ones affected by dementia-related hallucinations is essential to maintaining their well-being.
Understanding Hallucinations in Dementia
Hallucinations happen because the brain cannot correctly process its sensory inputs; thus, an individual can view something that never existed. Dementia may feature several forms of hallucinations:
Visual Hallucinations- Perceiving persons, animals, and objects when no one exists there.
Auditory Hallucinations- A hearing experience by receiving voices, sounds, and other noises but nobody else has that sound source.
Tactile Hallucinations- This perception involves receiving physical sensations of, for instance, bugs moving underneath the skin.
Olfactory Hallucinations – Smelling scents that are not present.
These experiences can range from benign to distressing. In some cases, hallucinations can lead to fear, paranoia, or agitation.
Causes of Hallucinations in Dementia
Hallucinations in people with dementia can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:
- Brain changes – Neurodegeneration which leads to disintegration of perception and cognition.
- Medication side effects- Certain drugs cause or worsen hallucinations.
- Environmental factors-Poor lighting, shadows, or unfamiliar surroundings may provoke.
- Underlying medical conditions – Infections, dehydration, and vision impairments can cause hallucinations.
How to React to Hallucinations
If a loved one is having hallucinations, remain calm and supportive. Here are some strategies for responding that are effective:
1. Remain Calm and Comforting
Do not argue or try to convince them that the hallucination is not real.
Provide comfort and reassurance to reduce fear or anxiety.
2. Evaluate the Situation
Determine if the hallucination is distressing or agitating.
If the hallucination seems harmless and does not cause any form of harm, it would be deemed acceptable to allow it to exist without much interference.
3. Distract
Gently divert the person’s attention onto another activity or conversation.
Active engagement in music, puzzles, or other favorite hobbies helps.
4. Change the Environment
Improve lighting in the environment to reduce shadows and reflections that could be misinterpreted as hallucinations.
Eliminate objects that might contribute to visual distortions.
5. Validate Feelings
Instead of dismissing the experience, validate their emotions.
Tell them, “I get that that feels real to you. Let’s sit together and talk about it.”
6. Check for Triggers
Look for possible causes such as hunger, dehydration, or overstimulation.
Sometimes, addressing basic needs can help hallucinations subside.
7. Seek Medical Advice
If hallucinations are becoming frequent or disturbing, seek professional medical advice.
Medication may need to be adjusted or there may be a medical evaluation needed.
Supporting Caregivers and Family Members
Hallucinations can be very challenging for a caregiver to manage. There are some things that the caregiver should know.
Learn all about the symptoms of dementia.
Attend support groups to share moments and gain emotional support.
Take time off, so one does not become overwhelmed and can maintain one’s mental strength.
When to Consult Professionals
Call for professional assistance when:
Hallucinations bring distress or force the patient to be aggressive.
Their hallucinations start being more frequent and intense.
There is suspicion of underlying medical conditions or medication side effects.
Dementia-related hallucinations are challenging, but with patience, understanding, and the right strategies, caregivers can help their loved ones navigate these experiences with compassion. Maintaining a supportive and calming presence, adjusting the environment, and seeking medical advice when necessary can improve the quality of life for people living with dementia.
