Paranoia is a common symptom of dementia. Those with Alzheimer's disease may suspect you or others of stealing their watch, their wallet, their election...
How do we handle those with such delusions? "Allow the individual to express ideas. Acknowledge their opinions." Distract the person with something that will take their mind off their obsession. Share your thoughts but keep it simple.
Incidents of older relatives who worried about being robbed came to mind this morning when I listened to Steve Inskeep's high-profile interview on NPR.
A government site on Alzheimer's offers a caution: "There are people who take advantage of weak and elderly people. Find out if someone is trying to abuse or steal from the person." Maybe the wallet is missing. If it can't be found there may be a problem. If they are worried, it's OK to investigate.
It's easy to argue with the deluded, but the standard advice is don't confront. It's easy to get defensive; don't take offense.
It might be convenient to nod your head and go along if, say, Grandma is still considering you for her will. Or if Grandpa still has sway with influential friends who can steer your future.
But if you choose to believe the delusions without evidence and to chase down, berate, and punish those whom your would-be benefactor falsely suspects, then someone else's dementia is the least of your problems.
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Your thoughts are welcome! I'll try not to flinch if there are nasty ones, which I understand are fairly common nowadays.