Why do people with dementia believe they are being watched

People with dementia often experience a distorted sense of reality, which can lead to feelings of being watched or followed. This phenomenon is not just a product of their imagination; it’s rooted in how their brain processes information. Dementia affects the brain’s ability to interpret sensory inputs correctly, causing confusion and misperception of the environment.

Imagine walking into a room and seeing a coat hanging on a chair. For most of us, it’s just a coat. But for someone with dementia, that coat might look like a person standing there, watching them. This misperception can be very real and frightening for them. It’s not that they’re imagining things; their brain is simply trying to make sense of what it sees, but it’s getting the signals mixed up.

Another factor contributing to these feelings is the presence of hallucinations and delusions. Hallucinations are when someone sees, hears, or feels things that aren’t there. Delusions are beliefs that aren’t true but feel very real to the person experiencing them. In dementia, especially in conditions like Lewy body dementia, these can be common. For instance, someone might see a family member who isn’t there or believe that someone is plotting against them.

The environment also plays a significant role. Changes in lighting, shadows, or reflections can create illusions that reinforce the feeling of being watched. Even something as simple as a TV show can blur the line between reality and fantasy, making it difficult for someone with dementia to distinguish what’s real and what’s not.

Understanding and empathy are crucial when dealing with these situations. Instead of correcting or arguing with the person, it’s better to acknowledge their feelings and offer reassurance. For example, if they express fear about being watched, you might say, “I know it feels scary, but you’re safe with me.” This approach helps them feel more secure and understood.

In summary, people with dementia believe they are being watched due to a combination of misperceived sensory inputs, hallucinations, delusions, and environmental factors. By being supportive and understanding, we can help them navigate these challenging experiences.