Why do people with dementia develop a fear of shadows

People with dementia often experience a range of confusing and frightening symptoms, one of which is a fear of shadows. This fear can stem from several factors, including how their brains process visual information and the impact of their environment.

Firstly, individuals with dementia may have difficulty distinguishing between real and imagined objects due to a condition called pareidolia. Pareidolia is when the brain mistakenly sees patterns or shapes in random stimuli, such as seeing faces in clouds or objects in shadows. For someone with dementia, shadows can appear as moving figures or objects, leading to fear and agitation[3][5].

Another factor is the way lighting affects their perception. Shadows can create an eerie atmosphere, especially if the lighting is dim or inconsistent. In people with dementia, this can exacerbate confusion and anxiety, making them perceive shadows as threats or unknown entities[5].

Additionally, sundowning—a common phenomenon in dementia—can increase agitation and confusion in the late afternoon or early evening. This condition is often triggered by fatigue and environmental factors, including lighting and shadows, which can further contribute to the fear of shadows[1].

To manage this fear, caregivers can take steps to create a more comforting environment. This includes using consistent and gentle lighting to reduce harsh shadows, ensuring the room is well-lit but not overly bright, and minimizing background noise to reduce overall stress[1][5]. By understanding and addressing these factors, we can help alleviate the distress caused by shadows for those living with dementia.