Is there a link between narcissism and dementia?

A narcissist will often try to make you feel as though you are losing your mind, or that you are delusional and this behaviour has become known as ‘gaslighting’. This behaviour could develop with the onset of dementia if they have not previously exhibited gaslighting behaviour.

How can you tell the difference between narcissism and dementia?

For the narcissist, their forgetfulness is often blamed on others. No Dementia: Mild Cognitive Decline. Forgetfulness becomes more consistent and trouble concentrating for long periods of time increases as work performance declines. Narcissists begin to notice this stage but work very hard to hide it from others.

Does narcissistic personality disorder get worse with dementia or Alzheimer’s?

Since both of us have very dysfunctional, narcissistic parents, it probably will be even worse than the average case. Recently, I read that if a person has Narcissistic Personality Disorder prior to the diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s, it will get worse as the disease progresses. My heart sank as I read it, but it did make sense to me.

How does dementia affect the personality?

Personality changes often occur even before the dementia is diagnosed, and typically appear to correspond with the progression of the dementia. In general, dementia tends to induce an increase in self-centeredness and a decrease in flexibility. The latter can increase the maladaptive expressions of a personality disorder.

Do you need a caregiver for your narcissistic parent?

Chances are, you are going to need someone to help in your narcissistic parent’s care. It may be too difficult on you emotionally & physically to be a full time caregiver. Start looking into options early in the diagnosis, before things get bad.

Did your husband change after his dementia diagnosis?

He was always the overt narcissist. Then suddenly he changed- for a while, he softened up a great deal. My husband even enjoyed spending time with him for the first time. Around the time of his dementia diagnosis though, he defaulted back to his old ways.