People with dementia often cling to certain objects because these items provide a sense of comfort, security, and familiarity amid the confusion and fear caused by their cognitive decline. These objects can act as tangible anchors to their past, helping them feel grounded when their memory and understanding of the present become unreliable.
Dementia affects the brain’s ability to process information, remember recent events, and make sense of surroundings. This cognitive impairment can lead to feelings of anxiety, disorientation, and vulnerability. When the world feels unpredictable and frightening, holding onto a familiar object can create a small but powerful sense of control and reassurance. For example, a favorite blanket, a piece of jewelry, or a photograph may evoke memories of safety, love, or identity, helping to soothe emotional distress.
The attachment to objects is also linked to how dementia disrupts memory. Long-term memories, especially those formed in early life, often remain more intact than recent memories. Objects connected to these long-term memories can trigger recognition and comfort. This is why a person with dementia might repeatedly reach for an old watch or a childhood toy—they are connecting to a part of themselves that still feels real and stable.
Moreover, dementia can impair communication skills, making it difficult for individuals to express their needs or feelings verbally. Clinging to an object can become a nonverbal way to communicate emotions such as fear, loneliness, or the need for reassurance. The object becomes a substitute for words, a physical expression of their inner state.
The brain changes caused by dementia also affect emotional regulation. People may experience heightened emotions or mood swings without understanding why. Holding onto a cherished object can help regulate these emotions by providing a calming focus. It can reduce agitation and help manage stress, much like a security blanket does for a child.
In some cases, the behavior of clinging to objects may be a response to loss of independence. As dementia progresses, individuals often lose the ability to perform daily tasks and rely more on caregivers. This loss can be frightening and frustrating. Clinging to an object may symbolize holding onto some part of their autonomy or identity, a way to resist the overwhelming changes happening around them.
The environment also plays a role. When surroundings become unfamiliar or overstimulating, people with dementia may seek out objects that feel safe and known. These objects can help them navigate confusing environments by providing a consistent point of reference.
Caregivers and family members can support this behavior by recognizing the importance of these objects and allowing access to them whenever possible. Providing familiar items can reduce anxiety and improve quality of life. However, it’s important to ensure that the objects are safe and do not pose a risk of injury.
Understanding why people with dementia cling to certain objects helps caregivers respond with empathy and patience. It’s not simply stubbornness or confusion; it’s a deeply human response to the challenges of losing memory, identity, and control. These objects become lifelines, helping people with dementia maintain a connection to themselves and the world around them.
