Aunt Mabel’s Pillow Pup: Understanding Hallucinations in Dementia
Your aunt’s belief that her pillow is a small dog might seem strange, but it’s actually a common experience for people with dementia. This phenomenon is called a visual hallucination, and it’s one of the many ways dementia can affect a person’s perception of reality[1][3].
Dementia causes changes in the brain that can lead to these vivid and often very convincing hallucinations. Your aunt’s brain is essentially playing tricks on her, making her see and believe things that aren’t really there[1]. It’s not that she’s making it up or being difficult – to her, that pillow really does look and feel like a small dog.
These hallucinations can be triggered by various factors. Sometimes, it’s because the brain is trying to make sense of unclear visual information. Your aunt’s eyesight might not be as sharp as it used to be, and her brain is filling in the gaps with what it thinks should be there[3]. In this case, the soft, cuddly texture of the pillow might remind her of a pet she once had, leading her brain to interpret it as a small dog.
Other times, hallucinations can be caused by changes in the brain’s chemistry or structure due to dementia. Certain types of dementia, like Lewy body dementia, are particularly known for causing vivid and detailed hallucinations[5].
It’s important to remember that these hallucinations can feel very real and sometimes even comforting to the person experiencing them. Your aunt might find joy and companionship in her “pillow pup,” and as long as it’s not causing her distress, it might not be necessary to constantly correct her[1].
However, if the hallucinations are upsetting or interfering with her daily life, it’s a good idea to talk to her doctor. They might be able to suggest ways to manage the hallucinations or adjust her treatment plan[3].
In the meantime, try to respond to your aunt with patience and understanding. You could say something like, “I see you’re enjoying your soft pillow. It must be very comforting.” This acknowledges her experience without directly challenging her belief[1].
Remember, your aunt isn’t choosing to see things that aren’t there. It’s just one of the many ways dementia can affect a person’s mind. With love, patience, and the right care, you can help her navigate this confusing aspect of her condition.
