Are you worried that your loved one with dementia has forgotten who you are?

It’s not uncommon in themiddleandlater stagesofAlzheimer’s diseasefor people to lose the ability to remember and recognize others.

Why Does This Happen?

An older couple looking at their wedding photos

People Images / istock

There are several possibilities for why your loved one doesn’t recognize you anymore.

Here are a few:

Memory Loss:Because Alzheimer’sdamages the brain, memory declines.

Paranoia and Delusions:Sometimes, a psychological change occurs in dementia and paranoia or delusions develop.

It’s possible that she can’t see you well enough to recognize you.

I’m your nephew Sam."

Photos and Videos:Show your loved one older pictures of family and friends to reminisce together.

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PMID: 25859124

National Institute on Aging.What Happens to the Brain in Alzheimer Disease?

National Institute on Aging.Alzheimer’s and Hallucinations, Delusions, and Paranoia.

Lippmann S, Perugula ML.Delirium or dementia?Innov Clin Neurosci.

2016;13(9-10):56-57. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-66002-z

National Institute for Dementia Education.Cognitive Benefits of Photo Reminiscence Therapy for Dementia Patients.

National Institute on Aging.Study tests two drug treatments for early-onset Alzheimer’s Disease.