Why is my father with dementia putting ice cubes in his shoes before wearing them?
Your father’s unusual behavior of putting ice cubes in his shoes before wearing them is likely a symptom of his dementia. As dementia progresses, it can cause changes in behavior and perception that may seem strange or nonsensical to others.
There are a few possible explanations for this specific behavior:
1. Sensory changes: Dementia can alter how a person experiences sensations. Your father might be feeling discomfort or warmth in his feet, and the ice cubes could be his way of trying to cool them down or alleviate perceived discomfort[1].
2. Confusion: Dementia often leads to confusion about everyday objects and their uses. Your father might be mixing up the purpose of ice cubes and shoes, thinking this is a normal part of getting dressed[3].
3. Memory issues: He may have a fragmented memory of needing to put something in his shoes (like insoles) and is using ice cubes as a substitute because that’s what’s available or visible to him[1].
4. Pica behavior: Some people with dementia develop pica, which involves eating or mouthing non-food items. While not exactly the same, putting ice in shoes could be a related impulse[13].
5. Hallucinations or delusions: Dementia can sometimes cause people to see things that aren’t there or believe things that aren’t true. Your father might be responding to a hallucination or false belief related to his shoes or feet[1].
It’s important to approach this behavior with patience and understanding. While it may seem odd to you, it makes sense to your father in some way. Try to ensure he’s comfortable and not at risk of injury (like slipping on melted ice). If the behavior persists or causes problems, consult with his doctor or a dementia specialist for guidance on how to manage it safely[3].
Remember, this behavior is a symptom of his condition, not something he’s doing on purpose to be difficult. Providing a calm, supportive environment and redirecting him gently to safer alternatives when needed can help manage these types of unusual behaviors[3].
