Grandma’s Napkin Mystery: A Simple Explanation
Have you noticed your grandmother with dementia tucking napkins into her sleeves? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! This behavior is actually quite common among people with dementia, and there are a few reasons why it might be happening.
First off, let’s talk about comfort. Your grandma might be feeling chilly or seeking a sense of security. Stuffing napkins in her sleeves could be her way of keeping warm or feeling protected[1]. It’s like having a cozy blanket with her all the time!
Another reason could be that your grandmother is trying to be helpful. People with dementia often want to feel useful, and collecting napkins might make her feel like she’s tidying up or preparing for later[1]. It’s her way of contributing, even if it doesn’t make sense to us.
Sometimes, this behavior is linked to past experiences or habits. Maybe your grandma used to work in a restaurant or enjoyed hosting dinner parties. Keeping napkins handy might be a familiar action that brings her comfort[1].
It’s also possible that your grandmother is experiencing some confusion about time and place. She might think she needs to save the napkins for later, not realizing that there will always be more available[1].
Lastly, this could be a form of collecting behavior. Some people with dementia develop an urge to gather and keep items close to them. Napkins are easy to find and soft to touch, making them a perfect collectible[1].
Remember, this behavior is usually harmless. As long as your grandmother isn’t distressed, there’s no need to stop her. If you’re concerned, you can gently offer her a small bag or pouch to keep her napkins in instead of using her sleeves.
The most important thing is to approach this with patience and understanding. Your grandma isn’t being difficult on purpose – she’s just navigating her world in a way that makes sense to her right now.
