Why Does My Father with Dementia Think His Hands Belong to Someone Else?
It can be distressing and confusing when a loved one with dementia experiences unusual symptoms. One perplexing behavior some people with dementia exhibit is believing parts of their body, like their hands, don’t belong to them. This phenomenon is called somatoparaphrenia.
Somatoparaphrenia occurs because dementia damages areas of the brain responsible for body awareness and self-recognition. As the disease progresses, it becomes harder for the person to recognize their own body parts. They may feel disconnected from their hands or legs, leading them to think these limbs belong to someone else[1].
This misidentification often causes anxiety or agitation in the person with dementia. They might try to “return” the hands to their perceived owner or become upset that a stranger’s hands are attached to their body. It’s important to remember this belief feels very real to them, even if it seems irrational to others.
While distressing, somatoparaphrenia is not harmful in itself. However, it can lead to safety issues if the person refuses to use their hands for important tasks. Gentle redirection and reassurance can help in these moments. Avoid arguing or trying to convince them they’re wrong, as this often increases frustration[2].
Instead, try acknowledging their feelings and offering comfort. You might say something like, “I can see you’re upset about these hands. Let’s focus on something else for now.” Engaging them in an activity they enjoy can help shift their attention away from the troubling thoughts.
Creating a calm, familiar environment can also reduce episodes of misidentification. Minimize changes to their surroundings and daily routine as much as possible. Some people find that covering mirrors helps if the person becomes distressed by their reflection[5].
It’s crucial to inform the person’s doctor about these symptoms. While there’s no specific treatment for somatoparaphrenia, the doctor may adjust medications or suggest strategies to manage the behavior. They can also rule out other potential causes, like medication side effects or undiagnosed medical conditions.
Remember, your father isn’t choosing to have these thoughts or trying to be difficult. His brain is simply struggling to process information correctly. Approaching the situation with patience, empathy, and understanding can help both of you navigate this challenging aspect of dementia.
