Visual hallucinations involve seeing people, objects, or scenes that are not present. They are the most common type of hallucination in dementia, especially in Lewy body dementia, where persistent visual hallucinations are a common feature.
How Visual Hallucinations Manifest
Misinterpretation of the environment:
Example: Patterns on fabrics or shadows in a room may appear as faces or objects.
Seeing People or Objects:
Example: John sees his wife’s face in the mirror when she is not there.
Complex or Bizarre Scenes:
A person may see entire events or situations that are not real.
Frequency:
Visual hallucinations may happen occasionally (lasting only seconds) or be persistent and distressing.
Possible Causes of Visual Hallucinations
Physical Illness
Infections (e.g., urinary tract infections).
Dehydration or delirium.
Medication Side Effects
Certain drugs can trigger or worsen hallucinations.
Stress and Mental Health
Long-standing mental disorders or extreme stress.
Sensory Impairments
Poor eyesight, poor lighting, or shadows can lead to misinterpretations.
Brain Changes
Visual hallucinations can result from changes in the brain as dementia progresses.
Responding to Visual Hallucinations
Reassure and Validate
Avoid dismissing what they see.
Example: “I know that must feel strange. I’m here to help.”
Check the Environment
Improve lighting to reduce shadows.
Remove reflective surfaces (like mirrors) or busy patterns that could be confusing.
Monitor Physical Health
Look for signs of infection, dehydration, or pain.
Consult a doctor to review medications for potential side effects.
Redirect Attention
Shift focus to a calming activity:
“Let’s look at your favorite photo album together.”
Stay Calm and Supportive
Respond with a gentle, reassuring presence.
Key Takeaway
Visual hallucinations in dementia can be distressing but are often caused by brain changes, environmental factors, or physical health issues. A calm, supportive approach combined with checking for triggers (like lighting or health problems) can help reduce their impact.
How Visual Hallucinations Manifest
Misinterpretation of the environment:
Example: Patterns on fabrics or shadows in a room may appear as faces or objects.
Seeing People or Objects:
Example: John sees his wife’s face in the mirror when she is not there.
Complex or Bizarre Scenes:
A person may see entire events or situations that are not real.
Frequency:
Visual hallucinations may happen occasionally (lasting only seconds) or be persistent and distressing.
Possible Causes of Visual Hallucinations
Physical Illness
Infections (e.g., urinary tract infections).
Dehydration or delirium.
Medication Side Effects
Certain drugs can trigger or worsen hallucinations.
Stress and Mental Health
Long-standing mental disorders or extreme stress.
Sensory Impairments
Poor eyesight, poor lighting, or shadows can lead to misinterpretations.
Brain Changes
Visual hallucinations can result from changes in the brain as dementia progresses.
Responding to Visual Hallucinations
Reassure and Validate
Avoid dismissing what they see.
Example: “I know that must feel strange. I’m here to help.”
Check the Environment
Improve lighting to reduce shadows.
Remove reflective surfaces (like mirrors) or busy patterns that could be confusing.
Monitor Physical Health
Look for signs of infection, dehydration, or pain.
Consult a doctor to review medications for potential side effects.
Redirect Attention
Shift focus to a calming activity:
“Let’s look at your favorite photo album together.”
Stay Calm and Supportive
Respond with a gentle, reassuring presence.
Key Takeaway
Visual hallucinations in dementia can be distressing but are often caused by brain changes, environmental factors, or physical health issues. A calm, supportive approach combined with checking for triggers (like lighting or health problems) can help reduce their impact.
