Why do Rummaging and hiding things is a common behavior in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Why do People with Alzheimer’s Rummage and Hide Things?

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory and cognitive function, and it can lead to behaviours that can be challenging for caregivers to manage. One of these behaviours is rummaging and hiding things, which can be frustrating and confusing for family members and caregivers. In this article, we will discuss why people with Alzheimer’s rummage and hide things and what caregivers can do to manage this behaviour.

Rummaging and hiding things is a common behaviour in people with Alzheimer’s disease. This behaviour can be triggered by a variety of factors, including boredom, anxiety, or the desire to maintain a sense of control. People with Alzheimer’s may also rummage through their belongings because they are trying to find something that they have misplaced or forgotten.

Hiding things can also be a coping mechanism for people with Alzheimer’s. They may feel overwhelmed by their surroundings or the people around them, and hiding things can give them a sense of control over their environment. Additionally, people with Alzheimer’s may hide things because they are worried that someone will take their belongings or they may forget where they put them.

Managing Rummaging and Hiding Behavior

Managing rummaging and hiding behavior in people with Alzheimer’s can be challenging, but there are several strategies that caregivers can use to help manage this behavior.

1. Create a Safe Environment: Make sure that the person with Alzheimer’s is in a safe environment and that they cannot harm themselves or others. Lock up any dangerous items, such as knives or medications, and make sure that the person cannot access them.
2. Provide Structured Activities: Providing structured activities can help to reduce boredom and anxiety and provide a sense of purpose. Activities can include playing games, doing puzzles, or engaging in simple household tasks.
3. Label Belongings: Labeling the person’s belongings can help them to find what they are looking for and reduce anxiety. Label drawers, cabinets, and other storage areas so that the person can easily locate their belongings.
4. Be Patient: It is important to be patient and understanding when managing rummaging and hiding behaviour. Remember that the person with Alzheimer’s is not intentionally trying to cause problems and that the behaviour is a result of their disease.
5. Redirect the Person: If the person with Alzheimer’s starts to rummage or hide things, gently redirect them to another activity or topic of conversation. This can help to distract them from the behaviour and reduce their anxiety.
6. Seek Professional Help: If the person’s behaviour becomes too challenging to manage, seek professional help. A healthcare professional can provide guidance on managing the behaviour and may prescribe medication to help reduce anxiety and agitation.

Caregivers can help reduce the frequency and severity of the behaviour by making the environment safe, giving the person structured activities, labelling his or her belongings, being patient, redirecting the person, and getting professional help. Remember that the person with Alzheimer’s is not intentionally trying to cause problems, and that understanding and patience are key to managing this behaviour.