Why is my mother with dementia packing a suitcase for a home she no longer has?

Dementia can cause confusion and disorientation, leading people to engage in behaviors that may seem puzzling to others. When a person with dementia packs a suitcase for a home they no longer have, it’s often because their mind is stuck in an earlier time period.

As dementia progresses, recent memories tend to fade first while older memories remain intact longer. Your mother may be recalling a time when she lived in a different home, perhaps from years or decades ago. In her mind, that home still exists and she needs to prepare to return there.

This behavior, sometimes called “packing behavior,” is quite common in people with dementia. Your mother likely feels a strong urge to go “home,” even if she’s already in her current residence. The act of packing may give her a sense of purpose and control in a world that increasingly confuses her.

It’s important to respond with patience and empathy. Arguing or trying to convince her she’s mistaken will likely only cause distress. Instead, you might gently redirect her attention to a different activity or reminisce with her about positive memories associated with her former home.

This behavior can be emotionally difficult for family members to witness. It serves as a stark reminder of how dementia affects a person’s grasp on current reality. However, allowing her to pack if it’s not causing harm can sometimes reduce anxiety and agitation.

Creating a calm, familiar environment with personal mementos can help ground someone with dementia in the present. Establishing routines and keeping important items visible may also reduce the urge to “go home.”

Remember, your mother isn’t deliberately trying to be difficult. Her brain is struggling to make sense of her surroundings and experiences. Providing reassurance and focusing on the emotions behind her actions, rather than the actions themselves, can help both of you navigate this challenging aspect of dementia.