Grandma’s scratching her face a lot, and it’s getting infected. This is pretty common for people with dementia. There are a few reasons why this might be happening.
First, dementia can mess with how the brain processes sensations. Your grandma might feel itchy or uncomfortable, but not know how to express it or deal with it properly. So she scratches and scratches, even if it’s causing damage.
Sometimes, people with dementia pick at their skin because they’re anxious or agitated. It’s like a nervous habit that’s gotten out of control. They might not even realize they’re doing it.
Dry skin is another culprit. As we get older, our skin gets drier and itchier. If your grandma isn’t able to take care of her skin like she used to, this can make the problem worse.
There’s also a chance that medications are causing itchiness as a side effect. Or she might have an actual skin condition that needs treatment.
The tricky part is that dementia makes it hard for her to understand or remember not to scratch. Even if you tell her to stop, she might forget a few minutes later.
To help, you can try keeping her nails short and smooth. Put moisturizer on her skin to help with dryness. Distract her with activities she enjoys when you notice her scratching. You might need to cover the affected areas with soft bandages to let them heal.
It’s important to talk to her doctor about this. They can check for underlying skin issues or adjust medications if needed. They might also suggest treatments to help the infected areas heal.
Remember, your grandma isn’t doing this on purpose. It’s just another way dementia affects the brain and behavior. With some patience and the right approach, you can help make her more comfortable and protect her skin.
