Dementia can cause people to do unusual things, like your father wearing socks on his hands and calling them mittens. This behavior might seem strange, but it’s actually quite common for people with dementia.
As dementia progresses, it affects the brain in ways that can change how a person thinks, acts, and perceives things around them. Your father might be putting socks on his hands because he’s feeling cold or because the texture of the socks feels comforting to him. The soft, warm feeling of socks might remind him of mittens, which is why he’s calling them that.
Sometimes, people with dementia mix up the purpose of everyday items. Your father might have forgotten what socks are typically used for, so he’s found a new way to use them that makes sense to him in the moment. This kind of creative problem-solving is actually a way for people with dementia to cope with their changing abilities.
It’s important to remember that this behavior isn’t harmful. As long as your father is comfortable and not in any danger, it’s okay to let him wear the socks on his hands if he wants to. In fact, this could be an opportunity to engage with him positively. You could ask him about his “mittens” and see if he wants to tell you a story about them.
If you’re concerned about keeping your father’s hands warm, you might want to get him some actual mittens or gloves that are easy to put on and take off. There are special gloves designed for people with dementia that can be easier to manage[1].
Remember, the goal is to keep your father comfortable and reduce any stress or anxiety he might be feeling. If wearing socks on his hands makes him feel better, it’s a harmless way for him to cope with the changes he’s experiencing[7].
Lastly, it’s always a good idea to mention new behaviors like this to your father’s doctor. They can help you understand what’s happening and give you more tips on how to support your father as his dementia progresses[3].
