Grandma’s Secret Stash: Why She’s Hiding Food in Her Bed
If you’ve noticed your grandmother with dementia tucking away snacks under her pillow or stashing cookies in her bedsheets, you’re not alone. This behavior, known as hoarding or hiding food, is actually quite common in people with dementia.
So why does Grandma do this? Well, there are a few reasons:
First, dementia can mess with a person’s sense of time and routine. Your grandmother might forget when her last meal was, so she squirrels away food “just in case.” It’s her way of making sure she won’t go hungry.
Second, hiding food can be a way for her to feel in control. As dementia progresses, many aspects of life become confusing or scary. Having a secret food stash gives her a sense of security and independence.
Sometimes, it’s about reliving past experiences. Maybe your grandmother grew up during tough times when food was scarce. Those old memories and habits can resurface with dementia, leading her to hoard food like she did in her younger days.
Confusion about where things belong is another factor. Your grandmother might simply forget that food goes in the kitchen, not the bedroom.
Lastly, it could be a sign that she’s not feeling satisfied after meals. She might be saving food for later because she’s still hungry or worried about not having enough to eat.
While it might seem odd or frustrating to you, try to remember that this behavior isn’t harmful in itself. However, it’s important to check her hidden stashes regularly to remove any spoiled food that could make her sick.
If you’re concerned, talk to her doctor. They can help rule out any underlying issues and offer advice on managing this behavior. In the meantime, show your grandmother lots of love and patience. Dementia is a tough journey, but understanding quirks like food hiding can help you support her better.
