I recently posted a message asking for advice about people with Alzheimer's becoming preoccupied with the 'people in mirrors'. I received positive and helpful comments from all who responded and was most grateful for this.
May I offer a little advice based on my experience? Should the person you care for become angry at the people in mirrors, or begin to threaten them, or become very afraid of them, then it is time to contact their GP or someone at their Memory Clinic for support. There are treatments which can help the person who sees these strangers as unfriendly or intrusive. Their 'real presence' can lead to fear, paranoia and unpleasant defensive behaviours.
Some have told me that their family members are happy to chat to their reflection all day and that is just fine if they are happy.
I realise now that I sought advice on this forum as I felt things were getting out of hand with my father. I have since got medical intervention which seems to be helping. I therefore thought I should share my experience as I am now medically enlightened.
May I offer a little advice based on my experience? Should the person you care for become angry at the people in mirrors, or begin to threaten them, or become very afraid of them, then it is time to contact their GP or someone at their Memory Clinic for support. There are treatments which can help the person who sees these strangers as unfriendly or intrusive. Their 'real presence' can lead to fear, paranoia and unpleasant defensive behaviours.
Some have told me that their family members are happy to chat to their reflection all day and that is just fine if they are happy.
I realise now that I sought advice on this forum as I felt things were getting out of hand with my father. I have since got medical intervention which seems to be helping. I therefore thought I should share my experience as I am now medically enlightened.