Older people living in the community with delusion.

The findings of this study underline the critical relationship between social interactions and persecutory delusions among older women living alone. The unmet need for empathy influences the progression from anxiety-driven hallucinations to fully formed delusions. Early intervention can prevent the escalation of delusions and involuntary psychiatric hospitalization. This study underscores the importance of recognizing the link between social isolation and delusion emergence. It advocates for compassionate environments to meet the psychological needs of older individuals grappling with delusions. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; ••: ••-••.