Grandma’s Water Dipping Habit: What’s Going On?
If you’ve noticed your grandmother with dementia dipping her hands in water and rubbing them on furniture, you’re not alone. This behavior can be puzzling and concerning for family members. Let’s break down what might be happening and why.
First off, it’s important to understand that dementia affects the brain in ways that can change a person’s behavior. Your grandma might be doing this for a few reasons:
1. Sensory seeking: The feel of water on her hands and the texture of furniture might be comforting or interesting to her. Dementia can alter how the brain processes sensory information, making some sensations more appealing.
2. Repetitive behaviors: People with dementia often engage in repetitive actions. This water dipping and rubbing might be a pattern that feels familiar and soothing to her.
3. Trying to clean: She might think she’s cleaning the furniture. Even if it doesn’t make sense to us, in her mind, she could be trying to help around the house.
4. Expressing a need: Sometimes, unusual behaviors are a way of communicating. She might be thirsty, need to use the bathroom, or feel anxious about something.
5. Reliving a memory: This action could be connected to a past job or hobby, like gardening or housekeeping.
What can you do about it? First, make sure she’s safe. Keep an eye out for slipping hazards from water on the floor. If the behavior isn’t harmful, it might be okay to let her continue. You could try giving her a safe alternative, like a damp cloth to wipe things with, or involve her in simple household tasks if she seems to want to help.
Remember, patience is key. This behavior might be frustrating, but it’s not something she can control. If you’re worried, talk to her doctor. They might have more specific advice or be able to check if there’s a medical reason behind the behavior.
Caring for someone with dementia is tough, but understanding these quirky behaviors can help you respond with kindness and keep your grandma comfortable and safe[1][5][9].
