Confusing television with reality

My husband talks to people on TV and gets distressed by the news, as if it's happening in our house. What should I do?

For a brain with dementia, distinguishing the image on screen from reality becomes difficult – people "are" in the room, and what happens in the film happens "here".

Why it happens

Dementia affects the ability to interpret contexts. The sound and movement on screen are processed as a real presence. Violent films, dramatic news, or televised arguments can cause genuine fear, agitation, or sadness.

Practical strategies

• Choose the content: calm programmes, music, nature, old comedies, sport – and avoid intense news, violence, and suspense films.
• If he talks to the screen without distress, there's no need to correct him – it can even be companionship.
• If he gets distressed, turn it off without announcing it ("shall we have a coffee?") instead of explaining that "it's not real".
• Prefer short sessions and with company: commenting on what's being watched turns TV into interaction.
• At night, avoid screens near bedtime – they worsen sleep and agitation.

Good to know

Recorded programmes give complete control: no unexpected news or blaring adverts. Family videos and photos on screen usually work better than any channel.

Sources: Alzheimer's Association; Alzheimer's Society (United Kingdom).