How do you manage a person with dementia who is eating non-food items

Managing a person with dementia who is eating non-food items, a behavior known as pica, requires patience, understanding, and a thoughtful approach. This behavior can be distressing for both the person with dementia and their caregivers, but there are effective strategies to address it.

First, it’s crucial to stay calm and avoid scolding when you notice this behavior. Reacting with anger or frustration can increase the person’s distress and make the situation worse. Instead, gently remove the non-food item from their mouth and redirect their attention to something else. This approach helps maintain a calm environment and reduces the likelihood of the behavior escalating.

Ensuring proper nutrition is another key aspect of managing pica. Sometimes, people with dementia may eat non-food items because they are hungry or because they crave certain textures. Offering a variety of nutritious foods with different textures can help satisfy these cravings and reduce the urge to eat non-food items. For example, providing soft snacks or sugar-free gum can fulfill the need for oral stimulation without the risk of ingesting harmful objects.

Keeping non-food items out of reach is also essential. This means removing any potentially dangerous items like paper, coins, or small objects that could be easily picked up and eaten. By doing so, you can prevent accidents and ensure the person’s safety.

Engaging the person in meaningful activities can also help reduce the urge to eat non-food items. Activities like folding laundry, listening to music, or simple exercises can distract them from the desire to engage in pica. These activities not only reduce boredom but also provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

If pica is a new behavior, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Sometimes, pica can be a sign of underlying nutritional deficiencies or other health issues that need to be addressed. A healthcare professional can help identify any underlying causes and provide guidance on how to manage them.

Overall, managing pica in people with dementia requires a combination of understanding, patience, and proactive strategies. By ensuring proper nutrition, providing safe alternatives, and engaging the person in meaningful activities, you can help keep them safe and improve their quality of life.