How to Respond When Someone with Dementia Hallucinates

Dear Carol: My dad has Lewy body dementia (LBD) and likely Alzheimer’s, as well. The current crisis is that he thinks bugs are crawling all over the ceiling, which I’m told is common with LBD. It doesn’t help that summer is coming, and actual bugs will occasionally be a problem that could trigger more episodes. The diagnosing doctor retired, so Dad’s next appointment will be with a new doctor who I’m praying will be responsive and have some ideas. Meanwhile, I’m struggling. I’ve done everything I can to convince Dad that the bugs aren’t real, but that makes him even more upset since they are real to him. Do you have any tips to help me respond better while we wait for the appointment? – TO

Dear TO: I’m sorry you and your dad are having such a tough time. Hallucinations in dementia are due to brain changes that can cause people to hear, see, or feel something that isn’t there. They misinterpret reality. Hallucinations can happen with any…

Continue reading on Inforum for more about how to handle hallucinations with dementia:

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