What may look like "lying" in someone with Alzheimer's is usually not intentional. The brain changes caused by Alzheimer's can lead to delusions — fixed, false beliefs that feel completely real to the person experiencing them.
These aren't lies — their brain is genuinely filling in gaps in memory with explanations that Show Full Answer
What may look like "lying" in someone with Alzheimer's is usually not intentional. The brain changes caused by Alzheimer's can lead to delusions — fixed, false beliefs that feel completely real to the person experiencing them.
These aren't lies — their brain is genuinely filling in gaps in memory with explanations that make sense to them, even if those explanations aren't accurate. Some common examples shared by myALZteam members include:
- Accusing caregivers of stealing money or belongings
- Believing a family member has been replaced by an imposter
- Insisting their home isn't really their home
- Claiming a caregiver is doing things they aren't
One myALZteam member shared that their mom accused them of writing checks and charging her accounts, which was not true. Others confirmed that paranoia like this is very common. A helpful approach many caregivers use is called therapeutic fibbing — gently going along with a loved one's version of reality to keep them calm, rather than arguing or correcting them. It's a compassionate tool, not deception.
Always speak with a doctor if these behaviors become frequent or distressing, as they can often be managed with the right support plan.
7 days ago
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