It is extremely common for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia to accuse a loved one or significant other of infidelity, cheating, stealing, hiding things, and so forth. Telling false stories are common symptoms of dementia.
It can be difficult and hurtful to deal with these accusations, but it’s important to approach the situation with compassion and understanding. Here are some tips that may help:
- Validate their feelings: Let your LO know that you understand that he’s upset and that you care about how he’s feeling.
- Avoid arguing: Arguing or trying to convince your significant other that their beliefs are not true can be frustrating and unproductive. Instead, try to redirect the conversation to a neutral topic or simply acknowledge his feelings without getting into a dispute.
- Reassure him: Let your SO know that you love him and that the accusations are not true. Offer words of comfort and affection to help ease his worries.
- Seek help: Consider seeking support from a therapist or support group to help you cope with the situation. They can provide additional resources and strategies to help you manage the challenges of caring for someone with a cognitive impairment.
- Be patient: Caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s can be emotionally and physically demanding, so it’s important to take care of yourself and to be patient with your Loved One.
Remember, it’s important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. The false accusations are a symptom of a larger issue and are not a reflection of your loved one’s true feelings towards you.
If you have concerns about your loved one’s mental or physical health, I would recommend speaking with a doctor or healthcare professional. They can provide a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.
