Dementia is a condition that affects the brain and can change the way a person thinks, remembers, and does everyday things. One of the questions people often ask is whether dementia can make someone forget how to use a spoon. The answer is yes, in some cases, dementia can cause a person to lose the ability to use simple tools like a spoon, even though they have used them for most of their life. This happens because dementia damages the parts of the brain that control memory, thinking, and movement. As the disease gets worse, it can make it harder for a person to remember how to do familiar tasks, including eating with a spoon.
Dementia is not just about forgetting names or where you put your keys. It can also affect what doctors call “procedural memory.” Procedural memory is the part of your brain that helps you do things automatically, like brushing your teeth, tying your shoes, or using a spoon. When dementia damages the brain, it can make it harder for a person to access these automatic skills. This is why some people with dementia may struggle to use a spoon, even if they have used one every day for years [1].
The ability to use a spoon is part of what doctors call “activities of daily living” or ADLs. ADLs are the basic things people do every day to take care of themselves, like eating, dressing, and bathing. As dementia progresses, it can make it harder for a person to do these tasks. In the early stages of dementia, a person might just need a little help or reminders. But as the disease gets worse, they may need more support, and eventually, they might not be able to do these tasks at all without help [1].
One reason dementia can make it hard to use a spoon is because it affects the brain’s ability to plan and coordinate movements. This is called “apraxia.” Apraxia is a condition where a person knows what they want to do, but their brain has trouble sending the right signals to their muscles. For example, a person with apraxia might know they want to eat with a spoon, but their hand might not move the way it should. They might pick up the spoon but not know how to bring it to their mouth, or they might use it in a strange way. Apraxia is common in people with certain types of dementia, like Alzheimer’s disease [1].
Another reason dementia can make it hard to use a spoon is because it affects a person’s attention and focus. People with dementia may get easily distracted or confused. They might start to eat but then forget what they are doing. They might put the spoon down and not pick it up again, or they might try to use it for something else. This can make mealtime frustrating for both the person with dementia and their caregivers [1].
Dementia can also affect a person’s ability to recognize objects. This is called “agnosia.” Agnosia is when a person can see an object but does not know what it is or how to use it. For example, a person with agnosia might look at a spoon and not know it is for eating. They might try to use it as a comb or a toy. Agnosia is another reason why someone with dementia might struggle to use a spoon [1].
It is important to remember that not everyone with dementia will lose the ability to use a spoon at the same time or in the same way. Some people may keep this skill for a long time, while others may lose it sooner. The speed and severity of these changes depend on the type of dementia, how far the disease has progressed, and the individual person [1].
There are things that can help people with dementia continue to use a spoon for as long as possible. One is to keep routines and make things familiar. For example, using the same spoon every day, sitting in the same place at the table, and having meals at the same time can help a person feel more comfortable and confident. Another is to give gentle reminders and encouragement. Sometimes, just saying “Here is your spoon” or showing the person how to use it can help them remember [1].
Physical activity can also play a role in helping people with dementia maintain their skills. Studies have shown that regular movement, like walking, can help slow down the progression of dementia and keep the brain healthier for longer [2]. When the brain is healthier, it is better able to remember and use skills like using a spoon. Even small amounts of activity, like walking for 20 minutes twice a week, can make a difference [2].
In some cases, people with dementia may need to use special tools or get help from caregivers. There are spoons designed for people with dementia that are easier to hold and use. Caregivers can also help by cutting food into small pieces, offering finger foods, or feeding the person if they are unable to do it themselves. The goal is to make mealtime as safe and enjoyable as possible [1].
Dementia is a complex condition that can affect many parts of a person’s life, including their ability to use a spoon. It is not just about memory loss, but also about changes in the brain that make it harder to do everyday tasks. With the right support and care, people with dementia can continue to do many things for as long as possible, even if they need a little extra help along the way [1].
Sources
[1] https://vitalrecord.tamu.edu/just-20-minutes-of-activity-twice-weekly-helps-halt-dementia/
[2] https://www.sciencenews.org/article/steps-slow-alzheimers-walk-physical
