Your uncle’s wall-licking behavior may be a symptom of his dementia. As dementia progresses, it can cause unusual behaviors that seem strange or concerning to family members.
There are a few potential reasons why someone with dementia might lick walls:
1. Sensory changes: Dementia can alter how the brain processes sensory information. Your uncle may be experiencing different tastes or textures when licking the wall that seem appealing to him, even if it doesn’t make sense to others[3].
2. Pica: This is a condition where people eat non-food items. It can sometimes occur with dementia and may explain wall-licking behavior[5].
3. Seeking stimulation: People with dementia may engage in repetitive behaviors like licking as a way to self-soothe or stimulate their senses when feeling anxious or understimulated[3].
4. Confusion: Your uncle may be confused about his surroundings and mistaking the wall for something else, like food.
5. Thirst or hunger: He may be trying to communicate a need for food or drink in an unusual way due to cognitive changes.
6. Medication side effects: Some medications can cause dry mouth, which might lead to licking behaviors.
While wall-licking isn’t typically dangerous, it’s a good idea to mention this new behavior to your uncle’s doctor. They can evaluate if it’s related to his dementia progression or if there are other health issues to address. The doctor may also have suggestions for redirecting the behavior or making sure your uncle’s needs are being met.
In the meantime, try to keep walls clean and consider if there are safe objects he can lick or chew on instead, like sugar-free lollipops. Providing engaging activities and making sure he stays hydrated may also help reduce the behavior. Remember that unusual actions are often part of the dementia journey, and approaching them with patience and understanding is key.
