Chewing on clothing is a common behavior seen in people with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. This habit, known as pica, involves the compulsive urge to eat non-food items. While it may seem strange or concerning, there are several reasons why your mother might be doing this.
As dementia progresses, it can affect the parts of the brain responsible for recognizing objects and their purposes. Your mother may not realize she’s chewing on clothing instead of food. The act of chewing itself can be comforting and familiar, even if she doesn’t understand what she’s chewing on.
Sometimes, people with dementia chew on things because they’re experiencing anxiety or stress. The repetitive motion of chewing can be soothing and help them feel more relaxed. It’s similar to how some people might bite their nails when they’re nervous.
Another possible reason is that your mother might be trying to communicate something. She could be hungry, thirsty, or experiencing discomfort in her mouth, like dry mouth or dental issues. Since dementia can make it hard to express needs verbally, she might resort to chewing as a way to cope or signal that something’s wrong.
Boredom or lack of stimulation can also lead to this behavior. If your mother doesn’t have enough engaging activities throughout the day, she might turn to chewing on clothing as a form of self-stimulation.
In some cases, chewing on non-food items can be related to changes in the brain that affect taste and smell. Your mother might be seeking different textures or sensations in her mouth.
It’s important to address this behavior gently and try to figure out the underlying cause. Make sure your mother is getting enough to eat and drink throughout the day. Offer her safe alternatives to chew on, like specially designed chewing jewelry made for people with dementia.
Keep her engaged with activities she enjoys and provide plenty of sensory stimulation. This could include listening to music, looking at family photos, or engaging in simple crafts.
If the behavior persists or you’re worried about your mother’s safety, it’s a good idea to consult with her doctor. They can check for any medical issues that might be contributing to the behavior and suggest additional strategies to manage it.
Remember, this behavior isn’t your mother’s fault, and it’s not uncommon in people with dementia. Approach the situation with patience and understanding, and focus on keeping her safe and comfortable.
