Get calming ideas in the moment when a loved one with dementia is upset
A retired teacher who writes the Alzheimer's Witness newsletter cares for her husband of 44 years, who has Alzheimer's. She writes that she turns to ChatGPT in the moment for strategies when he's caught in a delusion, and that it has helped her understand what he's going through.
What they did
When her husband's questions or delusions need a quick, soothing answer, she describes the situation to ChatGPT and asks for ways to respond and ways to cope herself.
How it went
She says the information broadened her understanding of his illness and the live suggestions helped her keep her footing in hard moments. She also says she sometimes forgets she's not talking to a person, and wonders whether that's wise.
Worth knowing
AI can't replace his care team or real people. The Alzheimer's Association runs a free 24/7 helpline (800-272-3900), and a caregiver support group can help with the loneliness she describes. If anyone is in danger, call 911.
Try it yourself
Copy this into ChatGPT (or any AI assistant). Replace the parts in [brackets] with your own details.
My [relationship] has [type of dementia]. Right now they believe [describe the delusion or worry] and are getting upset. Give me five short, gentle things I could say or do in the next few minutes that don't argue with them, plus one thing to avoid. Keep it brief. Then suggest one small thing I can do to steady myself afterward.
Source: Alzheimer's Witness, Alzheimer's Witness (Substack), Mar 25, 2026. Read the original →
First-hand account by the person who did it. Summarized in our own words. Spotted a mistake or want this removed? Tell us.