Home » Health Conditions » Alzheimer's & Dementia » Questions » My 88-year-old mother thinks we, her children…

My 88-year-old mother thinks we, her children, are stealing her things. She is losing things constantly and thinking other people take them. How should we take care of this?

Asked by zenia333  |  Sep 1, 2010

 Print

Email Email

She thinks her memory is perfect. How do we convince her to talk to her doctor so that she can be evaluated.
A cousin who lives near her provides some care as well and a 2nd cousin has also observed the problem. Do we all get together and share our concern? She hung up the phone last time I tried to talk to her about the problem. My father died 8 months ago and she is worse now.

Answer This Question

 
 
 
  •  Answers 1 to 1 of 1 
 
 

Carol Bradley Bursack, Sep 2, 2010

Over the span of two decades author, columnist and speaker Carol Bradley Bursack cared for a neighbor and six elderly family members. Because of this experience, Bradley Bursack created a portable support group, the book "Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories."

 

21. My 88-year-old mother thinks we, her children, are stealing her things. She is losing things constantly and thinking other people take them. How should we take care of this?
This is very common, and very painful. Your mother can’t accept (or doesn’t want to accept) her memory problems. It’s natural to get a bit paranoid if things keep “disappearing.” She is in denial or just can’t understand that her memory is failing. Most caregivers go through this, particularly when dementia is involved. You may want to read this article:
Who is telling the truth - http://www.agingcare.com/133383
Take care,
Carol

 
 

(0)

Report this Post 

  •  Answers 1 to 1 of 1 

Answer this Question

Please stay on topic or ask a new question.

Find Senior Housing And Care That Fits You Needs

I am looking for:
Search location:











Housing


Care


Join the Discussion

Have a question? Just need to vent? Find answers and support from the real experts - other caregivers!

Recent Community Activity

Two years this July my mother has been living with me. She is a mean and hateful woman and I just can't do…
Comment 1 min ago by brandywine1949

Should I pay off my grandma's house?
Answered 3 mins ago by jeannegibbs

The Caregiver & Dysfunctional Families: How are you doing?
Comment 5 mins ago by brandywine1949

The Caregiver....How are YOU doing today?
Comment 7 mins ago by brandywine1949

How to deal with a mother who doesn't care about or love me?
Answered 10 mins ago by brandywine1949

More From The Community »

Stay Connected

Sign up for our newsletter and receive practical tips and support for caregivers

 

Like AgingCare.com on Facebook