Dementia and the fear of mirrors
Dementia refers to a group of symptoms linked to the deterioration of the brain. This condition is more common among older people and can lead to memory loss, behavioral changes and problems with movement. One disturbing problem people with dementia can experience is while looking in the mirror.
Mirror and dementia
According to the NHS UK, mirror reflections can be “troubling” for those living with dementia. If there is a dementia patient in your house, NHS UK advises removing or covering mirrors to make your home more dementia-friendly. “Check mirrors and cover or remove them if they're likely to cause confusion in the person with dementia,” it says.
What causes the distress?
People with dementia can feel distressed while looking at the mirror as they may not be able to recognise themselves. According to experts, people with dementia are afraid of mirrors because they don’t understand that they’re seeing a reflected image of themselves. It is also advised to close the curtains in the evening so the patient with dementia can't see their reflection in the window glass. This is because differences in lighting could accidentally create a mirror effect on windows or paintings with glass frames.
Understanding their reaction
Since patients with dementia are unable to recognize themselves in the mirror, they think that a stranger has suddenly appeared near them. Being suddenly startled by a stranger or intruder can trigger anxiety, anger, or even hysterical terror.
They can feel extremely confused and unsafe, making them react completely irrationally. They might resist your attempts to calm them.
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Fear of mirrors and refusal to bathe
Fear of mirrors can make some seniors with dementia afraid of the bathroom, which could be the reason behind their refusal to bathe. They might be afraid of the stranger that appears when they are engaging in such personal activities.
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Other signs of dementia
Apart from the fear of mirrors, other signs of dementia include:
- Loss of memory
- Finding it hard to follow conversations or TV programmes
- Difficulty thinking or reasoning
- Feeling anxious, depressed or angry about memory loss
- Feeling confused when in a familiar environment
It is important to consult a doctor if you experience any of the following signs of dementia or anyone you know is experiencing such symptoms.