Fact 11: Dementia, Delusions, and Quality of Life
There’s no denying that dementia, especially when accompanied by delusions, can significantly impact the quality of life. This impact is not just confined to the person with dementia but extends to their caregivers as well.
A person with dementia experiencing delusions might feel threatened, anxious, and distressed. These feelings can lead to behavioral changes, sleep disturbances, and a general decline in wellbeing. The already existing cognitive impairment, coupled with these feelings, can make daily activities increasingly challenging.
For caregivers, managing the care of a person with dementia and delusions can be overwhelming. They might experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and fatigue, leading to a decrease in their quality of life.
However, with adequate intervention and support, it’s possible to improve the quality of life. Treatment of delusions, provision of caregiver support, and maintenance of an enriching environment can all contribute to a better quality of life. (11)
