As we get older, the physical and mental mechanisms of our brain start to decline. While all seniors may experience this mental deterioration in some form or another, hallucinations are among the more extreme symptoms that can arise as a result.
Understanding what causes these episodes is key to managing them properly and comforting a loved one who struggles with this affliction.
Some things that can cause hallucinations in seniors include medications, mental health issues, and cognitive decline. With the right information and care, these issues can be managed both medicinally and behaviorally by family members and professional caregivers.
Examining Types of Hallucinations
The human mind is a complex and mysterious entity. One aspect of this intricacy is the occurrence of hallucinations—perceptions that seem real but are not grounded in reality. Hallucinations can range from visual to auditory, tactile to olfactory, and even gustatory (related to taste).
Each type of hallucination presents a unique challenge to scientists and researchers who seek to understand them. Investigating the nuances of each type of hallucination allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the power and potential of the human mind.
Causes of Hallucinations in Seniors
At some point in our lives, we have all experienced some form of hallucination, whether it be a vivid dream or a fleeting visual distortion. However, as we age, the chances of hallucinations occurring can increase.
These hallucinations can stem from a variety of causes, such as sensory deprivation, side effects of medications, infections, and even neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.
For seniors, it can be especially difficult to navigate these hallucinations as they can lead to confusion and disorientation. It is crucial to understand and address the underlying causes of these hallucinations in order to provide effective treatment and care for our senior loved ones.
- Medication Side Effects
While it’s important to take the medication as prescribed by your doctor, it’s also crucial to be aware of any potential side effects associated with the medicine. Sometimes, side effects can be more severe and require medical attention, such as hallucinations.
It’s important to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have about side effects and to be vigilant about monitoring your senior loved one’s symptoms when they start taking a new medication.
With the right precautions and management, however, many side effects can be managed effectively, allowing your loved one to continue reaping the benefits of prescribed medication without undue worry.
- Hearing Loss
Although it may seem counterintuitive, auditory deprivation can cause the brain to create phantom sounds and voices, known as auditory hallucinations. These can be incredibly vivid and realistic, leading some individuals to believe that they are experiencing a supernatural or paranormal event.
Researchers are still trying to understand the complex mechanisms behind this phenomenon, but one theory suggests that the loss of input from the ears causes the brain to compensate by creating its own sound patterns.
- Cognitive Decline & Mental Illness
Hallucinations can be caused by a variety of factors. 2 common causes are cognitive decline and mental illnesses.
Seniors with Lewy body dementia or Alzheimer’s disease may experience hallucinations as a result of changes in the brain. Depending on the cause, different treatment options may be available to those who experience hallucinations. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help seniors manage these symptoms.
Mental illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are also known to cause hallucinations, which can be auditory or visual in nature. These symptoms can affect people of any age.
Treatment Options for Hallucinations
Treatment options for hallucinations typically depend on their underlying cause. In some cases, psychotherapy or medication can be used to reduce the frequency and intensity of hallucinations, which can help those struggling with them live a more fulfilling life.
Cognitive Behavioral Treatment (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is an evidence-based approach to treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including those that cause hallucinations. CBT is a type of therapy that can help your loved one learn coping strategies to manage hallucinations and reduce their impact.
CBT works by helping people identify triggers that lead to hallucinations and teaching them how to respond in a more effective way. With the help of a trained therapist, your loved one can develop the skills to reduce the impact of hallucinations and improve their overall quality of life.
Antipsychotic Medications
Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren’t actually there can severely impact someone’s daily life. That’s why antipsychotic medication is often crucial in managing these symptoms. These medications work by altering brain chemistry, reducing the intensity of hallucinations and the delusions that often accompany them. While they may not completely eliminate hallucinations, they can significantly improve the quality of life for those who struggle with them.
Stimulation Programs & Socialization
Stimulation programs and socialization can provide a helpful and engaging avenue for those with hallucinations. These programs create opportunities to interact with others and engage in activities that challenge their minds and stimulate their senses. By participating in these programs, individuals can find a sense of community and belonging, as well as learn new techniques for coping with their hallucinations.
Find a Supportive Community for Your Loved One
If your loved one is experiencing hallucinations, it’s crucial to determine the cause to provide them with the necessary support. If your loved one experiences hallucinations due to a cognitive issue, memory care can offer an opportunity to improve their quality of life with specialized, 24/7 care.
The Villages at Murfreesboro offers compassionate memory care for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive concerns.
If you or an aging loved one has been experiencing possible symptoms of hallucinations, know that qualified professionals are looking out for you every step of the way. Book a tour to explore our community today.
