Behaviour & Distress
Dementia and accusations of stealing: how can I respond?
A missing object can feel genuinely worrying. Acknowledge the concern and offer to look together instead of arguing. Do not dismiss a possible theft simply because someone has dementia. New or sudden changes need professional assessment, not an assumed explanation.
You could try: “Your purse matters to you. Shall we look together?”
Hugo is the guide inside The Dementia Assistant, helping you explore dementia questions in more detail.
General educational guidance, not individual medical advice or an emergency service.
Explore this question with Hugo on The Dementia Assistant®. Hugo can help you consider the topic in more detail: “A person with dementia is accusing someone of stealing. What might be causing this, and how should I respond?”