In this episode of Spotlight on Care, Steve and Virginia explore the complex and often distressing experience of delusions in dementia with David Sultzer, MD, the Clinical Research Director at UCI MIND and professor of Psychiatry & Human Behavior. Dr. Sultzer explains how and when delusions, such as paranoia and misidentification, develop in individuals with dementia and the impact they have on caregivers. He discusses practical approaches for managing these false beliefs, including reassurance, environmental adjustments, and structured routines. The conversation also covers available medications that may help prevent or reduce delusions, along with its potential risks.

Resource: What Are Delusions? These false beliefs can be a symptom of delusional disorder or another condition by Amy Morin, LCSW; Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD
https://www.verywellmind.com/definition-of-delusion-4580458docdd

Virginia and Steve discuss the legal concerns that arise after a dementia diagnosis with Orange County probate attorney, Stephen Magro, JD, who has 30 years of experience in elder law. Mr. Magro outlines the legal steps needed to help protect loved ones with dementia including setting up a will and trust and establishing an advanced health care directive. For more information about Stephen Magro’s law firm, visit www.smagrolaw.com. What would like to hear about next? Email us at mwitbrac@uci.edu.

Co-hosts Virginia and Steve are joined by Renée Brown Harmon, MD, a retired family physician, who shares her eight-year journey as a caregiver for her husband, Harvey, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's at age 49. Dr. Harmon discusses the challenges of caregiving, the stages and types of grief, and the coping strategies she used. She also highlights the emotional and physical toll caregiving can take. Her book, Surfing the Waves of Alzheimer's: Principles of Caregiving that Kept Me Upright, provides practical guidance and emphasizes the importance of accurate information, community, and self-care for caregivers.

Renée's website can also be found here:

• https://www.reneeharmon.com/about/