Why is my father with dementia convinced the refrigerator is a person?

Why Does Dad Think the Fridge is a Person?

If your father has dementia and believes the refrigerator is a person, you’re not alone. This kind of mix-up is actually pretty common for people with dementia.

As dementia progresses, it can cause confusion about objects and their purpose. Your dad’s brain might be having trouble recognizing what the fridge is and what it’s for. Instead, his mind might interpret it as a person standing in the kitchen.

Sometimes people with dementia can experience hallucinations, where they see or hear things that aren’t really there[1]. Your dad might be hallucinating that the fridge is talking or moving like a person would.

The disease can also affect memory and reasoning skills. Your father may have forgotten what a refrigerator is, but still recognize it as a large object in the kitchen. His mind might then fill in the blanks and decide it must be a person.

Certain types of dementia, like Lewy body dementia, are more likely to cause visual hallucinations and misidentification of objects[1]. If this behavior is new, it might be worth talking to your dad’s doctor about his symptoms.

While it may seem odd or frustrating to you, try to be patient with your father. Arguing or trying to convince him the fridge isn’t a person probably won’t help and might just upset him. Instead, gently redirect his attention or play along if it’s not causing any harm.

Remember, your dad isn’t doing this on purpose. It’s a symptom of his disease. With some understanding and creativity, you can find ways to make him feel safe and comfortable, even if he thinks the kitchen appliances are people.