Why Does My Father with Dementia Keep Folding Clean Laundry?
If you’ve noticed your father with dementia repeatedly folding and refolding clean laundry, you’re not alone. This behavior is actually quite common in people living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Let’s explore why this happens and how you can respond.
Seeking Comfort in Familiar Tasks
For many older adults, folding laundry is a familiar and comforting activity. It’s something they’ve likely done countless times throughout their lives[1]. As dementia progresses, your father may be drawn to this task because it feels safe and gives him a sense of purpose.
Repetitive Behaviors
Repetitive actions, like folding laundry over and over, are typical in dementia. These behaviors can be soothing and help manage anxiety or restlessness[1]. Your father might not realize he’s repeating the task, but the act itself can be calming for him.
Maintaining a Sense of Usefulness
As dementia affects a person’s abilities, they may struggle to feel useful or productive. Folding laundry is a straightforward task that allows your father to feel like he’s contributing to the household[3]. It’s a way for him to stay engaged and active.
Memory and Time Perception Issues
Dementia affects memory and how a person perceives time. Your father might not remember that he’s already folded the laundry, so he starts the task again[1]. To him, it may feel like he’s doing it for the first time each time.
How to Respond
1. Encourage the activity: If folding laundry brings your father joy and keeps him occupied, it’s generally fine to let him continue[3]. You could even set aside a basket of clean items specifically for him to fold.
2. Redirect gently: If the behavior becomes disruptive, try to redirect his attention to another activity he enjoys, like looking at photo albums or listening to music[1].
3. Create a routine: Incorporate laundry folding into his daily schedule. This can provide structure and a sense of accomplishment[4].
4. Offer praise: Thank your father for his help and tell him he’s doing a great job. This positive reinforcement can boost his self-esteem[3].
5. Ensure safety: Make sure the laundry area is safe and free from hazards. Remove any items that could be dangerous if mishandled[4].
Remember, this behavior isn’t harmful, and it’s serving a purpose for your father. By understanding why he’s doing it and responding with patience and kindness, you can help him feel secure and valued.
