Why is my father with dementia convinced that water is poison?

Why Does My Father with Dementia Think Water is Poison?

If your father has dementia and believes water is poison, you’re likely feeling confused and concerned. This type of belief is actually quite common in people with dementia, and there are a few reasons why it might be happening.

First, dementia can cause hallucinations and delusions. Your dad might be experiencing false perceptions or beliefs that seem very real to him. He may genuinely see or taste something in the water that isn’t there, leading him to think it’s poisonous[2][7].

Dementia also affects a person’s ability to think clearly and logically. Your father may have trouble processing information about water and mistakenly conclude it’s harmful[2]. His brain might be misinterpreting sensory information or memories in a way that makes water seem dangerous.

Sometimes, people with dementia develop paranoid thoughts. Your dad might believe someone is trying to hurt him by poisoning his water. This kind of delusion can feel extremely real and frightening to the person experiencing it[7].

Dehydration can actually worsen confusion and disorientation in people with dementia. So if your father is avoiding water because he thinks it’s poison, it could create a vicious cycle where he becomes more confused due to dehydration[3].

It’s also worth considering if any medications could be contributing to this belief. Some drugs can cause side effects like hallucinations or paranoid thoughts, especially in older adults[4].

Importantly, forcing your father to drink water or arguing with him about whether it’s poisonous likely won’t help. Instead, try offering other beverages he enjoys, like juice or tea. You could also try serving water in a different cup or adding a splash of juice to change the taste.

Make sure to speak with your father’s doctor about this issue. They may want to evaluate if there are any underlying health problems or medication side effects contributing to this belief. The doctor can also provide guidance on ensuring your dad stays hydrated safely.

Remember, even though this belief isn’t based in reality, it feels very real to your father. Approach the situation with patience and compassion. With the right strategies and support, you can help keep your dad healthy and hydrated while respecting his concerns.