Why is my mother with dementia convinced she is trapped in someone else’s body?

Why does my mother with dementia think she’s trapped in someone else’s body?

Dementia can cause all sorts of strange and confusing symptoms. One of the more upsetting ones is when a person becomes convinced they’re trapped in someone else’s body. This can be really distressing for both the person with dementia and their loved ones.

There are a few reasons why this might happen. As dementia progresses, it damages different parts of the brain. This can mess with a person’s sense of self and their connection to their own body. They might look in the mirror and not recognize themselves anymore. Or they might feel like their body isn’t responding the way it used to.

Memory loss plays a big role too. Your mom might have forgotten what she looks like or how old she is. So when she sees herself, it doesn’t match up with the image in her mind. This disconnect can make her feel like she’s in the wrong body.

Dementia can also cause hallucinations and delusions. Your mom’s brain might be creating a false reality where she truly believes she’s someone else trapped in the wrong body. Even if it doesn’t make sense to you, it feels very real to her.

The disease can jumble up memories as well. Your mom might be confusing memories of herself with memories of other people. So she might think she’s actually her own mother or sister stuck in the wrong body.

It’s also common for people with dementia to feel a loss of control over their lives and bodies. As they lose abilities, they might feel like their body isn’t their own anymore. Saying they’re trapped in someone else’s body could be a way of expressing that feeling.

While this symptom is upsetting, try to remember it’s the disease talking, not your mom. Stay calm and don’t argue with her about it. Instead, focus on comforting her and making her feel safe. Remind her gently of who she is and that you’re there to help. You might show her familiar photos or objects to help ground her.

If this symptom is causing a lot of distress, talk to her doctor. There may be medications or other treatments that can help reduce confusion and false beliefs. The doctor can also check if any other health issues might be making things worse.

Dealing with dementia is tough, but you’re not alone. Support groups and counseling can help you cope with the challenges. Remember to take care of yourself too as you care for your mom.