Grandma’s Spoon-Hiding Mystery: A Dementia Dilemma
If you’ve noticed your grandmother with dementia tucking spoons into her bra, you’re not alone. This behavior, while unusual, is actually quite common in people with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Let’s dive into why this might be happening and what it means.
First off, it’s important to understand that people with dementia often exhibit strange behaviors that might not make sense to us. These aren’t done to be difficult or sneaky – they’re usually a result of changes in the brain caused by the disease[1].
One reason for hiding objects like spoons is that people with dementia often feel a need to keep familiar items close. Spoons are everyday objects that your grandmother probably used throughout her life. Hiding them in her bra might make her feel secure, like she’s keeping something important safe[5].
Another explanation is that your grandmother might be experiencing something called “hoarding behavior.” This is when people with dementia collect and hide objects, often in unusual places. They might forget where they put things and keep gathering more, leading to stockpiles of random items[1].
Sometimes, this hiding behavior is linked to a condition called “pica,” where people eat non-food items. While your grandmother probably isn’t eating the spoons, the urge to keep them close might be related[9].
It’s also possible that your grandmother is trying to hold onto a sense of control. As dementia progresses, people often feel like they’re losing control over their lives. Hiding objects can be a way of exerting some control over their environment[1].
Remember, your grandmother isn’t doing this to be difficult. She’s likely not even aware that it’s unusual. This behavior is just one of the many ways dementia can affect a person’s actions and thought processes[10].
So, what can you do about it? First, try not to get frustrated. Instead, gently redirect her attention when you notice her hiding spoons. You might also want to keep track of where she tends to hide things, so you can check those spots if items go missing[1].
If the behavior becomes problematic – for example, if she’s hiding sharp objects that could hurt her – talk to her doctor. They might have suggestions for managing the behavior or adjusting her care plan.
Dealing with dementia can be challenging, but understanding these behaviors can help you respond with patience and compassion. Your grandmother isn’t trying to cause trouble – she’s just navigating a confusing world the best way she can.
