Dementia is a condition that affects the brain and changes the way a person thinks, remembers, feels, and behaves. When someone has dementia, their brain does not work the way it used to. This can cause many different behaviors that might seem strange or confusing to others. One of these behaviors is repetitive cleaning or organizing. Sometimes, a person with dementia will clean the same thing over and over again, or they will keep rearranging items in a room, even if everything is already clean or tidy. This is not something they do on purpose to annoy anyone. It is a result of the changes happening in their brain because of dementia [1].
Repetitive cleaning or organizing is a common behavior in people with dementia. It is often called rummaging or compulsive behavior. Rummaging means that a person keeps searching through things, moving them around, or putting them in different places. Sometimes, they might clean a table or a shelf many times, even if it is already spotless. They might also organize drawers, cabinets, or closets again and again. This behavior is not just about being neat or tidy. It is a way for the person to cope with the confusion, anxiety, or boredom that dementia causes [1].
The brain changes in dementia make it hard for a person to remember things, understand what is happening around them, or feel safe and comfortable. When someone feels lost, anxious, or unsure, they might try to do something familiar to feel better. Cleaning or organizing is a familiar activity for many people. It gives them a sense of control and purpose. Even if they do not remember why they are doing it, the act of cleaning or organizing can help them feel calmer and more secure [1].
Sometimes, repetitive cleaning or organizing is linked to other symptoms of dementia. For example, a person might forget that they have already cleaned something, so they do it again. They might also misplace items and then spend a lot of time looking for them, which can look like cleaning or organizing. In some cases, the person might be trying to fulfill a need, such as feeling hungry or wanting to do something useful. Cleaning or organizing can be a way to distract themselves from these feelings or needs [1].
It is important to understand that this behavior is not a sign of stubbornness or a bad attitude. It is a result of the brain changes caused by dementia. The person is not doing it to be difficult or to create more work for others. They are trying to cope with the challenges they face every day. Caregivers and family members should try to be patient and supportive, rather than frustrated or angry [1].
There are several ways to help a person with dementia who is engaging in repetitive cleaning or organizing. One approach is to provide them with safe and meaningful activities that give them a sense of purpose. For example, you can ask them to fold socks or washcloths, sort silverware, prepare vegetables using safe kitchen aids, sort non-essential paperwork, or organize a junk drawer filled with safe but unimportant items. The goal is not to have them do these tasks perfectly, but to help them feel that they are doing something worthwhile and useful [1].
Another strategy is to create a calm and structured environment. A clutter-free and organized space can reduce confusion and anxiety. It can also make it easier for the person to find what they need and feel more in control. If the person is cleaning or organizing the same thing over and over, you can try to gently redirect their attention to a different activity. For example, you might suggest going for a walk, listening to music, or doing a simple craft project [1].
It is also important to address any underlying needs or feelings that might be causing the behavior. If the person is anxious, bored, or lonely, they might be more likely to engage in repetitive cleaning or organizing. Spending time with them, talking to them, or doing activities together can help reduce these feelings. If the person is in pain or discomfort, it is important to seek medical help, as pain can also contribute to behavioral changes in dementia [2].
Caregivers of people with dementia often face many challenges, including physical and emotional strain. Chronic pain is common among dementia caregivers and can make it harder to provide care. Caregivers may have difficulty with tasks such as helping the person with bathing, dressing, eating, or cleaning the home. Pain can also make it harder to be patient and supportive, which can affect the quality of care and the well-being of both the caregiver and the person with dementia [2].
If you notice that a loved one is engaging in repetitive cleaning or organizing, it is important to talk to a doctor or a specialist. These behaviors can be an early sign of dementia, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, communication difficulties, or changes in mood or personality [3]. Early diagnosis and appropriate medical support can help improve the quality of life for both the person with dementia and their caregivers [3].
Dementia can also affect a person’s emotions and behavior in other ways. People with dementia may become angry, upset, or frustrated more easily. This can be due to changes in the brain that affect mood and emotional responses. It can also be a reaction to fear, pain, or frustration caused by the challenges of living with dementia. Caregivers should try to understand that these emotional changes are a result of the disease, not a reflection of the person’s true feelings or intentions [4].
In some cases, repetitive cleaning or organizing may be linked to other risk factors for dementia, such as high blood sugar, hearing loss, low education level, air pollution, depression, physical inactivity, traumatic brain injury, smoking, high blood pressure, or social isolation. Addressing these risk factors through lifestyle changes or medical treatment may help reduce the risk of dementia or slow its progression [6].
Repetitive cleaning or organizing is a complex behavior that can be challenging for both the person with dementia and their caregivers. It is important to approach this behavior with empathy, patience, and understanding. By providing safe and meaningful activities, creating a calm environment, addressing underlying needs, and seeking medical help when needed, caregivers can help their loved ones feel more comfortable and secure [1].
Sources
[1] https://dailycaring.com/9-ways-to-manage-dementia-rummaging-behavior/
[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12627032/
[3] https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/if-you-spot-these-5-early-signs-of-dementia-head-to-the-doctor-article-153098040
[4] https://optoceutics.com/how-does-dementia-affect-you-emotionally-behavior-crying-affect-behaviors/
[6] https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/modifiable-risk-factors-of-dementia/
