Is Paranoia a Symptom of Dementia?

In the world, 50 million people have dementia, and every year, there are 10 million new cases. While it seems like something that commonly occurs in the elderly, you might be surprised to know that it’s actually not a normal part of aging!

If you have a loved one who’s not acting like themselves, then you might be worried. A question that may have popped up in your mind is this: is paranoia a symptom of dementia?

In this article, we’ll answer that question and other ones you may have.

Is Paranoia a Symptom of Dementia?

Let’s start off by answering the main question at hand. Paranoia is indeed a very strong sign of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. 

Exactly what is paranoia though? This is an uneasy and usually irrational sensation that someone’s either watching you and/or will threaten you in some way. For it to be paranoia, there must be no proof that this fear is justified.

Paranoia symptoms include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Agitation
• Hallucinations
• Personality changes
• Inappropriate behavior

What Are the Symptoms of Dementia?

Paranoia in elderly parents isn’t the only symptom of dementia. Some other ones you might notice in an elderly loved one are:

• Memory problems
• Concentration problems
• Coordination problems
• Issues with problem-solving and/or reasoning
• Issues with visual and spacial abilities
• Confusion and disorientation
• Apathy
• Loss of ability to do everyday tasks

Many of these symptoms overlap with other health problems, which makes it very important for your loved one to get a prompt medical consultation. Their doctor can either rule out or confirm that the one you love has dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

What’s the Treatment for Dementia?

Unfortunately, there’s no cure for dementia or Alzheimer’s. However, there are some ways symptoms can be temporarily improved.

Treatment options include:

• Cholinesterase inhibitors
• Memantine
• Other medications to help with hallucinations, anxiety, and/or depression

Your loved one can also undergo occupational therapy and other types of therapy that can help ease and exercise their minds.

How Do You Prevent Dementia?

You can’t prevent dementia either. However, there are some things you can do to decrease the chances of it happening to you or your family member.

The following can help you fight off dementia:

• Keeping an active mind
• Exercising
• Having an active social life
• Not smoking
• Getting enough vitamins
• Treating preexisting health conditions
• Getting enough sleep

Keep an Eye Out for These Symptoms in Your Loved Ones

So is paranoia a symptom of dementia? Senior paranoia is actually one of the main symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

If you notice paranoia and anxiety, as well as any other symptoms of dementia in your loved one, then make sure they get immediate medical attention. While dementia can’t be cured, it can certainly be slowed down. Help the senior in your life retain as much cognition as possible by watching out for them.

For more information on seniors and dementia, please check out the rest of our blog.