Your mother with dementia is pouring her coffee into a bowl instead of a cup because dementia affects the brain’s ability to process information and perform familiar tasks. As the disease progresses, it becomes harder for people to remember how to use everyday objects correctly.
Dementia causes changes in the brain that can make it difficult to recognize items or understand their purpose. Your mother might not remember that coffee is typically served in a cup, or she may confuse a bowl with a cup. The disease can also affect spatial awareness and motor skills, making it challenging to pour liquids accurately.
This behavior is a common symptom of dementia called apraxia, which is the inability to perform familiar tasks or use objects correctly. Your mother’s brain may no longer be able to send the right signals to her body to complete the action of pouring coffee into a cup.
It’s important to remember that this isn’t your mother’s fault. She’s not doing it on purpose or trying to be difficult. Her brain is simply struggling to process and carry out the task correctly.
To help your mother, you can try simplifying her environment by removing unnecessary items and keeping only essential objects within reach. You might also consider using specially designed cups with lids to make drinking easier and reduce spills.
Remember to be patient and understanding. Offer gentle reminders or assistance when needed, but try not to make her feel embarrassed or frustrated. If you’re concerned about her safety or ability to manage daily tasks, it may be time to consult with her doctor or a dementia care specialist for additional support and guidance.
