why does my mom keep trying to use the phone to call people who are gone
### Why Does My Mom Keep Trying to Use the Phone to Call People Who Are Gone?
If your mom is trying to use the phone to call people who are no longer with her, it can be a very distressing and confusing situation. There are several reasons why this might be happening, and understanding these reasons can help you find a solution to support her.
#### 1. **Memory Loss and Confusion**
If your mom has memory loss due to conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s, she might forget that the person she’s trying to call is no longer alive. She may remember the person’s name and number but not the fact that they have passed away. This confusion can lead to repeated attempts to call them.
#### 2. **Emotional Attachment**
People with dementia often experience strong emotional attachments to the past. They might hold onto memories of loved ones who have passed away, making it difficult for them to accept the reality of their loss. This emotional attachment can cause them to try and reconnect with the deceased through phone calls.
#### 3. **Routine and Habit**
For individuals with dementia, daily routines and habits can be very important. If your mom has a habit of calling certain people at specific times, she might continue to do so even if she’s aware that the person is gone. This is because the routine is deeply ingrained in her daily activities.
#### 4. **Lack of Understanding**
Sometimes, people with dementia may not fully understand the concept of death or the permanence of it. They might think that the person is just away or that they will return. This lack of understanding can lead to repeated attempts to contact the deceased.
### How to Support Your Mom
Given these reasons, it’s essential to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Here are some steps you can take to support your mom:
1. **Explain the Situation Clearly**
– Sometimes, simply explaining the situation clearly can help. You might say something like, “Mom, I know you miss Grandma, but she’s not here anymore. She’s in a better place.”
2. **Provide Emotional Support**
– Offer emotional support and reassurance. Let her know that you are there for her and that you understand her feelings.
3. **Create a Memory Book**
– Creating a memory book or scrapbook with pictures and stories of the deceased can help your mom remember happy times and feel more connected to the past.
4. **Encourage Alternative Activities**
– Engage your mom in activities she enjoys, such as hobbies, exercise, or spending time with friends and family. This can help distract her from the urge to call the deceased.
5. **Use Technology to Assist**
– Consider using a simple, easy-to-use phone like the RAZ Memory Cell Phone, which can help manage contacts and block unwanted calls. This can reduce the stress and anxiety associated with receiving unwanted calls.
6. **Seek Professional Help**
– If the situation persists and is causing significant distress, it may be helpful to seek professional advice from a healthcare provider or a counselor specializing in dementia care. They can provide additional strategies and support tailored to your mom’s specific needs.
By understanding the reasons behind your mom’s behavior and taking a supportive and empathetic approach, you can help her navigate this challenging situation and find ways to cope with her feelings.
