Alzheimer’s and dementia are the third most common reasons for a family caregiver to be helping a parent. You’ve started experiencing some of your mom’s memory loss and decline in reasoning skills.
Paranoia and delusions are very common in the middle stages of Alzheimer’s. They’re also the hardest symptoms to handle on your own. How do you help your mom through this very difficult stage?
Learn to Agree, Even When You Know She’s Wrong
Your mom is outraged. Her purse is missing, and she’s convinced her granddaughter stole it. You know that’s not true, but it’s real to your mom. You have to tell her you’ll investigate and then get to work.
Many times, you’re going to find that missing object in an unusual spot. Check her freezer, under her sofa, or in the back of a closet. Once you find it, consider adding a tracking device like a Bluetooth pet tracking tag. Sew it into your mom’s purse and make it easy to find in the future.
Do not disagree or try to argue your point. She’s not going to understand it. Telling her she has Alzheimer’s and isn’t thinking clearly will upset her more.
Learn to Monitor TV Viewing
When your mom is watching TV, aim for kid-friendly programming. She may love crime dramas, but she may not realize it’s fictional. Instead, try nature documentaries and travel shows. Try cooking shows and old cartoons. Funny videos of cats and dogs may help, too.
Use Distractions
When your mom is having a particularly rough day, be ready with distractions. You know her favorite treat is an oatmeal cranberry cookie. Keep a stash of them. When she’s lashing out or incredibly scared, a cookie is a great distraction.
If food isn’t a good idea, then try music or photos. You can also offer to take her for a walk if it’s daytime. Whatever you feel will work best is the first approach to try.
Talk to Her Doctor
Talk to your mom’s doctor about her behavior. There may be medications that can help ease the symptoms. It’s worth trying medications to see if it eases the paranoia and fear. Remember that it can take several weeks for the medications to start working, so don’t expect immediate results.
Arrange Alzheimer’s Care Services
It’s time to focus on your mental and emotional health. This is why it’s so important to arrange Alzheimer’s care for your mom. As her paranoid and delusional behaviors increase, you cannot be the only one helping her.
Alzheimer’s care professionals handle her aggression, paranoia, and delusional behaviors by redirecting her in meaningful, calming ways. Music, favorite foods, and games are all helpful. Talk to an Alzheimer’s care specialist to learn more.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Alzheimer’s Care in Peoria, AZ, please contact the caring staff at Home Care Resources at (602) 443-4700.
Sources:
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