Why is my father with dementia filling his drawers with soap bars? This unusual behavior might seem strange, but it’s actually quite common in people with dementia. Your father may be experiencing something called “hoarding” or “collecting” behavior, which often happens as dementia progresses.
People with dementia sometimes gather and store items that seem random or unnecessary to others. Soap bars are a common choice because they’re familiar, easy to handle, and have a pleasant smell. Your father might find comfort in collecting these items, or he may believe he needs them for some reason that makes sense to him, even if it doesn’t to you.
This behavior could also be related to memory problems. Your father might forget he already has soap and keep getting more, not realizing he’s accumulating a large collection. Or he might think he needs to stock up, forgetting that he doesn’t use soap as quickly as he once did.
Sometimes, people with dementia develop an intense interest in specific objects or textures. The smooth feel of soap bars might be appealing to your father, leading him to gather more and more.
It’s important to remember that this behavior isn’t harmful in itself, as long as your father isn’t eating the soap or using it in unsafe ways. However, it can be frustrating for caregivers and family members.
To handle this situation, try not to scold or argue with your father about the soap. Instead, you might gently limit his access to new soap bars while allowing him to keep a reasonable number. You could also try redirecting his attention to other safe, enjoyable activities that might satisfy his need to collect or organize things.
If the behavior becomes problematic or you’re concerned, it’s a good idea to talk to your father’s doctor. They might have additional suggestions or want to check if there are any underlying issues contributing to this behavior.
Remember, your father isn’t doing this to be difficult. It’s just one of the many ways dementia can affect a person’s behavior and thinking. Patience and understanding are key when dealing with these unexpected changes.
