As more older Americans struggle with dementia, doctors and caregivers worry about their guns

The man had been a patient for decades, retired now from a career in which firearms were a part of the job. He was enjoying his days hunting, or at the shooting range with friends.

But episodes of confusion had led to a suspicion of dementia, and the nights were the worst. At sundown, he became disoriented, anxious and a little paranoid, and had started sleeping with his loaded pistol under the pillow.

One night, he pointed it at his wife as she returned from the bathroom. It wasn't clear whether he recognized her, but he was certainly confused - and she was terrified.

"I've had that patient several times," said Dr. Michael Victoroff, then a primary care physician in