What Causes Hallucinations In An Elderly Person?

Posted on Wed, 10 May 2017

Question: I'm a 94 year old male in general good health -- a few nagging issues -- RA, vertigo, mild diabetes (for which I don't take any medications). About three months ago I started to experience some weird cognitive issues. Occasionally I see something that happened repetitively in my brain. For example. At a restaurant when dining with my family a waitress tripped and fell. I could swear that that same waitress did the same thing on our last visit. Two issues with that: 1. She had just started to work that day and 2. My family was with me on our last visit and did not see anyone trip. Yet, I can see it vividly in my mind.

My RA doctor does not believe the methotrexate I am on is the culprit. I had a full physical in February with my GP. I'm at a loss for what to do and who to go see.

Thanks, XXXXXXX XXXX

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (30 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Nothing to worry about at present

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have gone through your question and understand your concern.
This phenomenon is known as de javu.
This can happen to anyone and is mostly non pathological.
No investigation is required at this moment.
Continue the drugs for joint disease.
Follow up if repeated episodes or any other cognitive decline.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Do get back to me for further information.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
Neurologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana