Delusions

ccbattee

I am supporting (or trying) to support my brother and SIL. The latter has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. I believe the onset was at least 4 years ago when I noticed memory loss. It was not officially diagnosed until 2024.
She has always been a very anxious person but more so now. Medication has largely controlled the delusions but one persists. She calls me when she doesn’t recognize my brother as her husband while saying she remembers the wedding. Last night, she acknowledged he was there but thought there was someone else there. How can I support her through this?

Gator1976

Give her a picture of her husband with his name on it as her husband.
Put it in the bathroom on the mirror. Show her how she can go into the bathroom privately and confirm who he is.

SDianeL

As you probably already know arguing or reasoning won’t work. Found this online which says it better than I could. “To effectively deal with delusions in dementia, it's crucial to validate the person's feelings, offer reassurance, and avoid arguing about their beliefs. Focus on their emotional state, acknowledge their concerns, and provide support and comfort. Distraction and environmental modifications can also help manage the situation.”

Arrowhead

My aunt knew that her husband's name was John, but didn't recognize when she saw him. My wife forgot my name and who I was very early in her illness. Luckily, most of the time it did not make a difference but sometimes it made a big difference.