Your uncle’s behavior of collecting rocks and hiding them in his bed is likely related to his dementia. This kind of unusual collecting and hoarding behavior is fairly common in people with dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease.
As dementia progresses, it affects parts of the brain that control memory, thinking, and behavior. This can lead to strange habits that may seem puzzling or concerning to family members.
There are a few possible reasons why your uncle might be doing this:
First, he may be experiencing confusion and disorientation. The rocks might represent something familiar or comforting to him, even if it doesn’t make sense to others. Collecting and hiding them could be his way of trying to create a sense of control or security in his environment.
Second, your uncle may have forgotten the purpose of everyday objects. The rocks might seem valuable or useful to him in some way that’s not obvious to others. He may think he needs to keep them safe.
Third, this could be a form of repetitive behavior that’s common in dementia. Repeating actions like gathering and hiding objects can be soothing for some people with cognitive decline.
Fourth, your uncle might be reliving memories or experiences from his past. Perhaps collecting rocks was a hobby he once enjoyed, and this behavior is a reflection of that.
It’s important to remember that this behavior, while strange, is usually harmless. However, you should make sure the rocks aren’t creating a safety hazard in his bed. You might try gently redirecting his attention to other activities or providing him with safe objects to collect instead.
If the behavior becomes disruptive or dangerous, it’s a good idea to consult with his doctor. They might be able to suggest strategies to manage the behavior or adjust his treatment plan if needed.
Dealing with unusual behaviors in dementia can be challenging, but approaching the situation with patience and understanding can help both you and your uncle cope better with the changes brought on by his condition.
