Your uncle with dementia might be calling his coat his “armor” due to a few reasons. Dementia can cause confusion and changes in how people perceive things. He might feel his coat protects him, like armor does. The coat could make him feel safe and secure in a world that seems confusing or scary to him now.
Sometimes, dementia can bring up old memories. If your uncle was in the military or had a job where he wore protective gear, he might be mixing up those memories with his current reality. The familiar feeling of putting on a coat might remind him of putting on armor or protective equipment from his past.
Dementia can also affect language skills. Your uncle might be struggling to find the right word for “coat” and is using “armor” instead because it feels similar to him – something you wear for protection.
It’s important to remember that this behavior is part of the disease. Try not to correct him, as this might cause frustration or confusion. Instead, go along with what he’s saying. You could say something like, “Your armor looks very warm today, Uncle.” This approach can help him feel understood and respected.
If you’re concerned about this behavior, it’s a good idea to mention it to his doctor. They can help determine if it’s a normal part of his dementia progression or if it might indicate something else that needs attention.
Remember, your uncle isn’t doing this on purpose. Dementia changes how people think and communicate. Patience and understanding are key when interacting with someone who has dementia.
