Your father’s behavior of stuffing tissues into books is likely related to his dementia. This type of unusual action is common in people with dementia and is often referred to as “hoarding” or “collecting” behavior.
As dementia progresses, it affects the brain in ways that can change a person’s habits and actions. Your father might be putting tissues in books for a few reasons:
1. He may be trying to mark his place in the book but is confused about how to do it properly.
2. He could be attempting to organize or tidy up in a way that makes sense to him, even if it seems odd to others.
3. The tissues might represent something important to him, though the connection may not be clear to anyone else.
4. He may be acting on an impulse without fully understanding why he’s doing it.
5. This could be a repetitive behavior that provides him with a sense of comfort or purpose.
It’s important to remember that these actions aren’t intentionally disruptive. Your father isn’t trying to cause problems or make a mess. This behavior is a symptom of how dementia is affecting his brain.
While it might be tempting to stop him or remove the tissues, doing so could cause distress. Instead, try to ensure the behavior isn’t harmful and redirect his attention to other activities when possible. You might also consider providing him with a designated box or drawer where he can store tissues or other items he likes to collect.
If this behavior is new or suddenly increases, it’s a good idea to consult with his doctor. Changes in behavior can sometimes indicate other health issues or progression of the dementia.
Dealing with unusual behaviors can be challenging, but approaching them with patience and understanding can help both you and your father navigate this difficult time.
