Caring for a person with dementia requires patience and flexibility. Dementia affects memory, judgement and perception of reality. As the disease progresses, it becomes harder for the person to understand the truth, leading to confusion and emotional distress. In such situations, caregivers often face the difficult decision of whether to tell the truth.
Dementia care experts suggest that telling the whole truth is not always the best approach. The main goal in caring for a person with dementia is to reduce anxiety and keep the person calm. This is where ‘therapeutic lying’ comes in – a compassionate way of modifying the truth so that the person with dementia is reassured, rather than causing further distress.
What the experts say
Dementia care experts support therapeutic lying to help caregivers accommodate patients when possible. The Alzheimer’s Association advises caregivers to focus on emotional comfort rather than strict honesty. Dr Sarah Russell, an expert in caring for people with dementia, says always telling the truth “can sometimes increase stress and anxiety“. This technique is about empathy, not lying.
For example, when someone with dementia asks about a deceased loved one or insists on going to work, telling the truth can lead to confusion or pain. Gentle redirection, such as saying “They’re just gone” or “Let’s do something together,” helps keep the person calm.
When to use therapeutic lying
Therapeutic lying is most useful when the truth might cause suffering. Caregivers should assess each situation carefully. If someone believes he or she has missed an appointment or wants to visit a place he or she cannot get to, a reassuring response such as, “Everything is resolved, don’t worry,” can provide peace of mind.
It is important to use this approach thoughtfully. In situations involving safety or well-being, honesty is crucial.
Reducing anxiety and building confidence
Therapeutic lying reduces the anxiety experienced by many people with dementia. Correcting their misunderstandings can damage the caregiver-patient relationship, leading to frustration and conflict. By using a more subtle approach, caregivers can strengthen the intimate bond with the person they are caring for.
Balancing ethics and compassion
Some caregivers have a problem with the ethics of therapeutic lying. Although telling the truth is important, experts recommend prioritizing the well-being of the person with dementia. Therapeutic lying allows caregivers to balance kindness with the need to maintain the patient’s emotional safety.
How carers can support patients with dementia
Carers are key to ensuring the wellbeing of people with dementia. Therapeutic lying is one tool that helps caregivers manage emotional challenges while maintaining the dignity and comfort of the person they care for.
At Atena , we understand the challenges caregivers face when working with patients with dementia. We are here for you whenever you need us in this not easy, but extremely rewarding profession that is caregiving. Work with professionals, success is not a lucky chance!
