Your mother’s behavior of putting jelly on her socks before wearing them is likely a symptom of her dementia. This unusual action could be related to a condition called pica, which is sometimes seen in people with dementia[13].
Pica is when someone eats or tries to eat things that aren’t food. In dementia, this can extend to using non-food items in strange ways. Your mother might be confused about what jelly is for or how to use socks properly.
As dementia progresses, people often struggle with everyday tasks and may do things that don’t make sense to others[1][3]. They might forget how to use common objects or mix up the steps in normal routines. Your mother could be trying to do something familiar, like putting on lotion before socks, but is using jelly instead because she’s confused.
This behavior could also be a sign that your mother is having trouble recognizing objects or understanding their purpose[3]. She might think the jelly is something else, like foot cream or sock glue.
It’s important to approach this situation gently. Don’t scold or argue with your mother about it. Instead, try to figure out if there’s a need she’s trying to meet, like having dry feet or keeping her socks from slipping. You could offer to help her put on her socks or provide her with an appropriate alternative, like lotion, if her feet are dry.
Keep in mind that this behavior could be dangerous if she tries to eat the jelly-covered socks or if it makes her slip and fall. You might need to keep jelly out of reach and help her with dressing to prevent accidents.
If this is a new behavior, it’s a good idea to talk to her doctor. They can check if there are any underlying issues causing this change and offer advice on how to manage it.
Remember, your mother isn’t doing this on purpose to be difficult. It’s a symptom of her condition, and she needs your patience and understanding. With the right approach, you can help keep her safe and comfortable while preserving her dignity.
