Your uncle with dementia might be talking to the vacuum cleaner because his brain is changing, causing him to see or hear things that aren’t really there. This is called having hallucinations, and it’s pretty common for people with dementia[1][7].
When someone has dementia, the parts of their brain that help them understand what’s real and what’s not can get mixed up. So, your uncle might think the vacuum cleaner is actually a person or an animal[1]. He might see it move and think it’s alive, or he might hear the noise it makes and think it’s talking to him.
Sometimes, people with dementia can also get confused about what objects are for. Your uncle might remember that the vacuum cleaner is something you interact with, but forget exactly how or why. So he talks to it, thinking that’s what he’s supposed to do[3].
It’s important to remember that these hallucinations can seem very real to your uncle. Even though you know the vacuum cleaner isn’t talking back, to him it might feel like a normal conversation[7]. This can be scary or upsetting for family members to see, but try not to argue with him about it. Instead, you can gently change the subject or move the vacuum cleaner out of sight if it’s bothering him[1].
Talking to objects might also be your uncle’s way of dealing with feeling lonely or confused. People with dementia sometimes struggle to communicate with others, so talking to things around the house might make him feel more comfortable[5].
If you notice your uncle talking to the vacuum cleaner or other objects often, it’s a good idea to let his doctor know. They might want to check if his medication needs adjusting or if there are other ways to help him feel more comfortable[7].
Remember, even though it might seem strange to you, for your uncle, talking to the vacuum cleaner is just part of how he’s experiencing the world right now. The best thing you can do is to be patient, kind, and understanding.
