Grandma’s Cotton Ball Mystery: A Dementia Behavior Explained
If you’ve noticed your grandmother with dementia stuffing cotton balls in her nose, you’re not alone. This unusual behavior can be puzzling and concerning for family members, but it’s actually a symptom of a condition called pica, which can occur in people with dementia[10].
Pica is when someone eats or puts non-food items in their mouth. In dementia, this can include things like cotton balls, paper, or other objects that aren’t meant to be eaten[10]. It’s not just about eating though – sometimes people with dementia might stuff things in their nose or ears too.
Why does this happen? Well, dementia affects the brain in ways that can change a person’s behavior[1]. As the disease progresses, people might do things that seem strange or don’t make sense to us. They might forget what certain objects are for, or they might feel compelled to do something without really knowing why[5].
In your grandmother’s case, she might be experiencing sensory changes. The cotton balls might feel soothing or interesting to her. Or she might be trying to block out smells that are bothering her, even if we can’t smell anything unusual[3].
It’s also possible that your grandmother is feeling anxious or confused, and the cotton balls are a way for her to cope with these feelings[1]. Dementia can make the world seem scary or unfamiliar, and sometimes people develop behaviors that help them feel more in control.
What can you do about it? First, don’t scold or shame your grandmother. Remember, she’s not doing this on purpose to upset anyone. Instead, try to gently redirect her attention to something else. You might offer her a soft toy to hold or a task she enjoys doing[3].
It’s also important to make sure she’s safe. Cotton balls in the nose could be a choking hazard, so you’ll want to keep an eye on her and remove any potentially dangerous items[10].
Lastly, talk to her doctor about this behavior. They might have some suggestions or want to check if there are any underlying issues causing discomfort[3].
Remember, dementia can cause all sorts of unexpected behaviors. Your grandmother isn’t being difficult – her brain is changing, and she’s doing her best to cope. With patience and understanding, you can help her stay safe and comfortable.
