Aside from confusion and
memory loss, common hallmarks associated with Alzheimer’s disease,
paranoia is systematic of the illness as well. Not only does the condition
rear its ugly head in people living with Alzheimer’s, but also people
with other mental illnesses. Caring for a loved-one who is paranoid can be
a trying task. Do you know the signs of paranoia? Being aware of these
disturbing signs and reacting correctly can be a caregiver’s only
defense from their loved-one’s agitated state of mind. Here are some
signs of paranoia:
-
Isolation- people who
are paranoid often times do not want to be around other people. It
could be they fear someone is out to get them.
-
Suspicion- they believe
people are talking about them or plotting against them. Perhaps even
trying to kill them. Even a kind act is considered to have a hidden
motive.
-
Inability to relax-
this can cause aggressive behavior because they don’t trust others
easily. They might think bad things will always happen to them and
they may have a poor self-image.
-
Delusional- a person
with paranoia may have feelings of grandeur and believe they have
great worth and knowledge. Also, they may believe to be associated
with a higher power.
Now that you know some of
the signs of paranoia, here is how to react if your loved-one is
exhibiting such thoughts and behaviors:
-
DO NOT ever tell the
person he or she is acting paranoid. This will agitate your loved-one
even more.
-
If your loved-one fears
someone is plotting against them, try relaxing them. Show signs of
sympathy. Ask your loved-one to explain why they feel that way.
-
If your loved-one
believes something has been stolen from them, help them look for it.
-
Try to change the
subject if your care-recipient believes you are trying to harm or hurt
them. If you defend yourself, they will most likely think you are
guiltier.
-
If you have visitors to
your home, speak to them about your loved-one’s condition. Warn the
visitor not to overreact to false claims against them.
-
Attempt to avoid crowds
because a person who is paranoid can become very unsettled. The calmer
the situation, the better.
If you truly believe your
care-recipient suffers from paranoia, speak to their doctor. There are
medications that may be able to help control the erratic thoughts and
behaviors of your loved-one.
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