I have been recently discovered that my mother has a problem with stealing. She has been a chronic lyar and now this is new. She is 79 years old. Is this a common problem in the elderly? Please help me to learn ways in which I can help her.

Is stealing and lying a disease commonly seen in the elderly population?

How is she otherwise? Does she seem confused or suffer from memory problems? Some mental problems associated with old age can bring on compulsive stealing.

Whilst lying can cause distress for those around your mum, stealing could land her in trouble which she may have difficulty in dealing with.

I think you could do with getting your mum checked over by a medical professional if she will agree to it. If not, maybe you can have a word with the family doctor yourself.

In answer to your question - no, I don't think that increased lying and stealing are a byproduct of ageing. Sometimes ageing creates mood disorders and issues like aggression and stealing.

Alzheimers is known to change behavioral patterns. I agree with QLP, if you are able to take your mother to the doctor, you'll get a more accurate diagnosis.