Dementia can indeed cause people to forget how to use everyday household items. This happens because dementia affects the brain’s ability to process information, remember sequences of actions, and perform familiar tasks, a condition known as apraxia. Apraxia is common in dementia and means that even though a person may recognize an object, they cannot remember the steps needed to use it properly. For example, someone with dementia might forget how to operate a toaster, microwave, or even how to use a toothbrush or a remote control[1].
The brain damage caused by dementia disrupts communication between neurons, impairing memory, judgment, and motor skills. This leads to difficulties in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), which include using household items safely and effectively. As dementia progresses, the ability to carry out these tasks declines because the brain can no longer organize the steps involved or recall the purpose of the objects[1][5].
Medical research shows that dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease—the most common form of dementia—is characterized by the buildup of abnormal proteins in the brain, such as amyloid plaques and tau tangles. These interfere with normal brain function, leading to memory loss and cognitive decline. Early signs include misplacing items in unusual places and difficulty following conversations or instructions, which can extend to forgetting how to use household items[5][6].
The loss of specific types of memory, such as social memory (recognizing people), has been linked to the breakdown of protective structures around neurons called perineuronal nets. Research from the University of Virginia found that when these nets degrade, patients lose the ability to remember social interactions, while other types of memory may remain intact for a time. This suggests that different brain functions deteriorate at different rates in dementia, which can explain why someone might forget how to use objects even if they still recognize people[3][4].
Caregivers can support people with dementia by modifying the home environment to make using household items easier and safer. This includes labeling cabinets with words and pictures, placing frequently used items within easy reach, locking away dangerous items like cleaning supplies and knives, and installing safety devices such as stove locks or automatic shutoff systems. Establishing daily routines and memory aids like whiteboards or voice assistants can also help reduce confusion and anxiety[1].
In summary, dementia affects the brain’s ability to remember and perform tasks, which can cause people to forget how to use household items. This is due to the progressive damage to brain cells and the breakdown of neural structures essential for memory and motor planning. Medical research continues to explore ways to protect these brain structures and slow cognitive decline, but currently, supportive care and environmental modifications are key to helping those affected maintain independence and safety[1][3][4][5].
Sources:
[1] Aspen Valley Health – Tips for Dementia Caregivers at Home
[3] New Atlas – New target to prevent Alzheimer’s patients forgetting loved ones
[4] UVA News – UVA Researchers Discover Possible Reason Why People With Alzheimer’s Forget Family and Friends
[5] Grove Neurology – Understanding Memory Loss, Dementia, and Alzheimer’s Disease
[6] Medical News Today – Alzheimer’s: New tool may predict 10-year and lifetime memory risk
