What defense mechanism is at play when a client with early-onset Alzheimer's disease recounts experiences they never had?

Confabulation is the defense mechanism at play when a client with early-onset Alzheimer's disease recites experiences that they never actually had. This behavior is not intentional lying; rather, it's a way for the individual to fill in gaps in their memory. As the disease progresses, the brain's ability to retrieve accurate memories diminishes, and the person may create detailed but false narratives to maintain a sense of continuity and coherence in their life story.

Confabulation often emerges in neurocognitive disorders where memory impairment is significant. The individual is typically unaware that the memories are fabricated, believing them to be real. This mechanism serves to protect their self-image and avoid feelings of embarrassment or confusion associated with their cognitive decline. Awareness of this behavior is critical in therapeutic settings, as it influences how one can provide support and establish effective communication with the client.