Your aunt’s behavior of cutting holes in her clothes may be related to her dementia. This unusual action is not uncommon among people with dementia and can be attributed to several factors.
As dementia progresses, it affects various parts of the brain, leading to changes in behavior, perception, and decision-making. Your aunt might be experiencing sensory issues, where the clothes feel uncomfortable or restrictive. By cutting holes, she may be trying to alleviate perceived discomfort or adjust the fit of her clothing.
Another possibility is that your aunt is experiencing visual hallucinations or misperceptions. She might see patterns or objects on her clothes that aren’t really there, prompting her to cut holes to “remove” them. This could be related to the visual and perceptual changes that often occur in dementia[1].
Sometimes, people with dementia develop behaviors similar to a condition called pica, where they eat or manipulate non-food items. Your aunt’s actions might be a manifestation of this type of behavior, where she feels compelled to interact with her clothes in unusual ways[7].
It’s also possible that your aunt is trying to communicate something through this behavior. She might be feeling frustrated, confused, or attempting to express a need that she can’t articulate verbally. The act of cutting holes could be her way of exerting control over her environment or seeking attention.
As dementia progresses, people often lose interest in personal hygiene and may struggle with dressing appropriately[8]. Your aunt’s behavior could be a misguided attempt to modify her clothing to make it easier to put on or take off.
It’s important to approach this situation with patience and understanding. Try to identify any patterns or triggers for this behavior. Does it happen at certain times of day or in specific situations? Understanding the context can help in finding ways to address the underlying cause.
Consider consulting with her doctor or a dementia specialist. They might be able to provide insights into why this is happening and suggest strategies to manage the behavior. They may also want to review her medication to ensure it’s not contributing to the issue.
In the meantime, you can take practical steps to manage the situation. Remove scissors or other cutting tools from easy reach when not in use. Provide your aunt with comfortable, easy-to-wear clothing that doesn’t restrict movement. Engage her in meaningful activities that can redirect her attention and provide sensory stimulation in a safe way.
Remember, this behavior is likely not intentional but a symptom of her condition. With patience, understanding, and proper support, you can help your aunt navigate this challenging aspect of her dementia journey.
