Grandpa’s Coin Collection in the Bathtub: Understanding Dementia Behaviors
If you’ve noticed your grandfather with dementia hiding coins in the bathtub, you’re not alone. This behavior is actually quite common among people living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Let’s explore why this happens and what it means.
First off, it’s important to understand that your grandfather isn’t trying to be difficult or cause trouble. His brain is changing, and these changes affect his behavior in ways that might seem odd to us.
People with dementia often hide things. They might tuck away coins, jewelry, or other small objects in strange places like the bathtub, under mattresses, or in potted plants. This behavior can happen for a few reasons:
1. Memory problems: Your grandfather might forget where he usually keeps his coins, so he puts them somewhere that makes sense to him at the moment.
2. Feeling insecure: As dementia progresses, people can feel confused and unsure about their surroundings. Hiding valuable items might make them feel more secure.
3. Preparing for the future: Some people with dementia might feel the need to “save up” or prepare for hard times, even if it’s not necessary.
4. Losing things: Your grandfather might hide his coins to keep them safe, then forget where he put them. This can lead to a cycle of hiding and searching.
5. Confusion about ownership: Sometimes, people with dementia might not recognize their own belongings and feel the need to hide them from “strangers.”
It’s also worth noting that some dementia patients develop a condition called “pica,” where they might try to eat non-food items. If you notice your grandfather putting coins in his mouth, it’s important to talk to his doctor about this[3][11].
So, what can you do to help? First, try not to get frustrated. Remember, your grandfather isn’t doing this on purpose. Instead, try to figure out if there’s a pattern to his hiding spots. Many people with dementia have favorite places to tuck things away[9].
You might also want to create a special “treasure box” where your grandfather can safely store his coins and other small valuables. This can help satisfy his need to keep things secure while making it easier for you to find them later.
If the hiding behavior is causing problems, like clogging the bathtub drain, you might need to gently redirect your grandfather’s attention or find safer alternatives for him to handle and “hide.”
Lastly, always remember that these behaviors are part of the disease, not your grandfather’s true personality. With patience and understanding, you can help him feel safe and secure, even as his mind changes.
