Why Does My Father with Dementia Think His Hands Are Too Small?
If your father has dementia and believes his hands are too small, he may be experiencing a symptom called Alice in Wonderland syndrome. This rare condition causes distortions in perception, like seeing body parts as larger or smaller than they really are[1][13].
Dementia can affect how the brain processes visual information and interprets sensory input. As the disease progresses, some people develop unusual beliefs or misperceptions about their body or surroundings[11]. Your father’s conviction that his hands are too small is likely a result of these changes happening in his brain.
It’s important to understand that for your father, this perception feels very real and distressing. Even if you can clearly see his hands are normal-sized, arguing or trying to convince him otherwise probably won’t help. Instead, try to validate his feelings and gently redirect his attention to other topics or activities he enjoys[17].
This type of symptom can come and go. Your father may be more prone to these misperceptions when he’s tired, anxious, or in unfamiliar environments. Maintaining routines and a calm atmosphere may help reduce episodes[11].
While unsettling, this specific belief about hand size isn’t typically harmful. However, if it’s causing your father significant distress or interfering with daily activities, speak to his doctor. They may be able to adjust medications or suggest coping strategies[11].
Remember, your father isn’t choosing to have these thoughts. Approach the situation with patience and compassion. Focus on making him feel safe and loved rather than correcting his perception. With the right support, many families learn to navigate these challenging dementia symptoms together.
