Why is my mother with dementia stacking crackers on the windowsill?

Your mother’s behavior of stacking crackers on the windowsill is likely related to her dementia. This type of repetitive or unusual activity is common in people with dementia and can have several explanations[2][3].

For someone with dementia, the world can become confusing and overwhelming. Simple, repetitive tasks like stacking crackers can provide a sense of comfort and control. It may be your mother’s way of creating order in her environment or keeping herself occupied[3].

This behavior could also be linked to past memories or habits. Perhaps stacking items was part of a job she once had, or it reminds her of a familiar activity from her past. Dementia often affects recent memories first, while older memories remain intact longer[2].

Additionally, people with dementia may experience changes in their perception of the world around them. The windowsill might seem like a logical place for the crackers in your mother’s mind, even if it doesn’t make sense to others[3].

It’s important to remember that this behavior, while unusual, is generally harmless. Unless it’s causing distress or posing a safety risk, it’s often best to allow the person with dementia to continue with these activities as they can provide comfort and purpose[3].

If you’re concerned about this behavior, you could try gently redirecting your mother to a similar activity that might be more appropriate, like helping to organize items in the kitchen. You could also consider providing her with a “rummage box” filled with safe items she can sort and arrange[7].

Remember, patience and understanding are key when caring for someone with dementia. If you’re finding it challenging to manage these behaviors, don’t hesitate to seek support from healthcare professionals or dementia care specialists[3][7].