Stage 9. Personality Changes: The Unfamiliar Reflection
Middle stage dementia often brings along a symptom that can be particularly hard for loved ones to grapple with – changes in personality. The individual you knew might start to behave differently, show uncharacteristic traits, or respond in ways that are quite unlike them.
A once sociable and cheerful individual might become withdrawn and moody. Or, a usually calm and collected person might start to display unprovoked anger and aggression. These shifts can be quite stark, making the person seem almost like a different individual.
The personality changes are not limited to mood shifts. The individual might exhibit altered preferences, showing a newfound liking for things they previously disliked, or vice versa.
Their attitudes and beliefs might change as well. For instance, a frugal person might suddenly start spending extravagantly, or a fastidious individual might neglect personal hygiene.
Alongside these changes, an increased paranoia or suspicion towards others can also surface. The individual might start to believe unfounded theories, suspect loved ones of deceit, or become overly anxious about theft or harm. These fears and suspicions can be deeply ingrained, often resistant to reassurances or logical explanations. (9)
