Fact 3: Alzheimer’s Disease and Delusions
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-70% of cases worldwide. One of the characteristics of this disease is the progressive decline in cognitive function. As the disease progresses, it can lead to the emergence of neuropsychiatric symptoms, including delusions.
In Alzheimer’s disease, delusions can manifest in various ways. For instance, a person might believe they’re being persecuted or that a spouse is unfaithful. These delusions can cause significant distress, complicating care and management strategies.
Delusions in Alzheimer’s aren’t simply another symptom to manage. They can intensify other symptoms, such as agitation, and increase the risk of other complications, including depression and anxiety. They also place an additional emotional burden on caregivers, leading to higher rates of caregiver burnout.
Managing delusions in Alzheimer’s disease, therefore, requires a nuanced approach. It involves addressing the delusions themselves, monitoring for related complications, and providing support to caregivers.(3)
