Why is my grandmother with dementia lining up fruit in size order?

Grandma’s Fruity Lineup: A Dementia Puzzle

If you’ve noticed your grandmother with dementia arranging fruit by size, you’re not alone. This behavior, while unusual, is actually quite common in people with dementia. Let’s break down why this might be happening.

First off, dementia affects the brain in ways that can change a person’s behavior. As the condition progresses, people might do things that seem odd or out of character. Lining up objects, including fruit, is one of these behaviors.

For your grandma, organizing fruit by size might be a way of creating order in a world that feels increasingly confusing. Dementia can make everyday life feel chaotic, and simple tasks like arranging objects can provide a sense of control and accomplishment.

This behavior could also be a form of stimulation. As dementia progresses, the brain looks for ways to stay active. Sorting and organizing objects can be a way for the mind to engage in a task that feels purposeful.

Sometimes, this kind of repetitive behavior is called “pica” when it involves eating non-food items. While your grandma isn’t eating the fruit, the urge to organize it might stem from a similar place in the brain.

It’s important to remember that this behavior is harmless. In fact, it might be soothing for your grandmother. As long as she’s not becoming upset or frustrated by the task, it’s generally okay to let her continue.

However, if you’re concerned about this or any other new behaviors, it’s always a good idea to chat with her doctor. They can provide more insight into what’s happening and offer advice on how to support your grandma.

In the meantime, you might consider providing her with other safe objects to sort or organize. This could include buttons, colored blocks, or even socks. These activities can be a great way to keep her engaged and give her a sense of purpose.

Remember, your grandma is still the same person you’ve always known and loved. Her dementia might be changing how she interacts with the world, but your love and support remain crucial. So next time you see her lining up those apples and oranges, know that she’s finding her own way to make sense of her world.