When an older family member has dementia, there are a lot of challenging behaviors that may crop up. One of them is rummaging through things. As dementia progresses, some seniors begin to dig through drawers, boxes, and closets as though they are looking for something. They may even take items and hide them somewhere else. The behavior isn’t dangerous, but it certainly can be frustrating and create extra work for family caregivers.
Fortunately, experts and caregivers together have determined some techniques that are helpful in dealing with rummaging.
Below are some of those techniques.
Selectively Remove Items
It’s not a good idea to completely clean out the drawer the senior typically rummages in. That could be very upsetting to them. Instead, remove only certain items. If there is anything in the drawer that they could harm themselves or someone else with, such as a sharp letter opener or a pair of scissors, put it in a drawer that is too high for the older adult to reach or that you can lock. In addition to dangerous objects, also remove anything that is valuable and could be lost, such as a coin collection or jewelry.
Create a Rummaging Drawer
Consider creating a drawer specifically meant for rummaging. Place objects into it that will hold the older adult’s interest. Some items you might include are:
- Photographs of family members and friends, including some from the past.
- Items that might remind the older adult of their career, such as toy tractors, seeds, or a cowbell for a farmer or wooden spoons for a cook.
- Things with different textures, such as something soft, something bumpy, something squishy, etc.
- Inexpensive jewelry for a woman who has always enjoyed dressing up.
Just remember to choose only items that cannot cause injury and those that can be replaced or won’t be missed if lost.
Make Rummaging a Task
Some seniors rummage because they like to organize things and doing so helps them to feel productive. If you notice this behavior in your aging relative, try turning it into a task. You might give them socks to sort or have them organize items on a desk, such as paper clips, rubber bands, and other small items.
While these ideas can help you to cope with rummaging, sometimes what a family caregiver really needs is a break. Taking a break from caregiving can help you to return with a fresh perspective and more patience.
Home care can help you to take regular breaks, allowing you to refresh yourself and spend time doing other things. Home care providers can look after the older adult to make certain they are safe and have all the things they need, such as healthy meals and meaningful activities. Home care providers can be scheduled to come to the older adult’s home as often as needed, ensuring you can take a break and rest when needed.
Sources: https://dailycaring.com/9-ways-to-manage-dementia-rummaging-behavior/
https://www.alz.org/media/greatermissouri/Rummaging_Hiding_and_Hoarding_Behaviors.pdf
https://www.verywellhealth.com/why-do-people-with-dementia-rummage-through-drawers-4016551