We’ve all experienced that moment of utter panic when we cannot find our keys or wallet. It’s disorienting and frustrating. Now, picture this happening multiple times every day, coupled with an overwhelming sense of confusion and fear. This scenario is a common part of life for people with dementia. To make things even more unsettling, it could be that someone with dementia is hiding things themselves, usually in places you’re not likely to look.
Why do people with dementia hide things? There are several key factors that might be at play.
- Loss of organizational skills: It might become challenging for someone with dementia to understand the purpose of everyday objects or recall where they go. Hiding items can be a misdirected attempt at organization, a way to manage the daunting task of keeping tabs on their environment.
- Suspicion and paranoia: Dementia often brings about a heightened sense of suspicion and paranoia. Your loved one may become suspicious of those around them, fearing that others might steal their possessions. This increased sense of mistrust can prompt them to hide their belongings in an attempt to protect them.
- Memory issues and confusion: Hiding items can be a manifestation of the confusion and loss of memory that accompanies dementia. As memory fades, a person with dementia may no longer recall where they put their belongings, leading them to hide items in what seems like a secure spot. This action can give them a sense of security and help reduce their anxiety about losing things.
- Need for engagement: Rummaging and hiding is often a form of engagement or activity for someone with dementia. As they lose the ability to take part in more complex activities, these simpler actions can provide a feeling of purpose and occupation. These activities can fill their time and trigger a sense of accomplishment.
Understanding the causes of this behavior can help you approach the situation with empathy and patience. Try:
- Creating a secure and structured environment: Make sure that their living space is organized and free of hazards. Consistency in how furniture and personal items are arranged can minimize confusion and make it easier for them to find the things they need.
- Providing engaging, meaningful activities: Keep their minds and hands busy with activities that are right for their abilities and interests. Simple tasks like sorting, folding, or working with sensory objects can be both calming and fulfilling.
- Labeling common hiding spots: Clearly label storage areas, drawers, and cupboards. This can act as a helpful reminder of where things belong and can minimize the likelihood of items being hidden in unusual places.
- Maintaining a routine: A predictable daily routine can offer a sense of security and reduce anxiety. Regularly scheduled activities, meals, and rest times can help create a structured environment that feels safe and familiar.
Quick Answers to the Most Common Questions About Dementia and Hiding Things
- What stage of dementia is hiding things?
Hiding or misplacing items is most common in the middle stage of dementia, when confusion, memory loss, and paranoia increase but the person is still active and mobile. - Is hiding things a sign of dementia?
It can be. Frequently hiding or losing items, especially with no memory of doing so, can be an early sign of cognitive decline. - Where do people with dementia usually hide things?
Common spots include dresser drawers, under mattresses, behind cushions, inside shoes, or in kitchen cabinets—places that feel “safe” or familiar. - How can I find things a person with dementia hides?
Check favorite hiding places first, keep a list of spots, and gently involve them in looking rather than accusing or scolding. - How do you stop someone with dementia from hiding things?
You can’t fully prevent it, but labeling drawers, keeping routines consistent, and offering engaging activities can help reduce the behavior. - Should I be worried if this behavior increases?
Not necessarily, but if hiding becomes obsessive, causes distress, or leads to safety issues, talk to a doctor or dementia care professional for guidance.
We’re also here to partner with you to ease the root causes behind hiding items as well as other challenging effects of dementia. Get in touch with us at (954) 486-6440 for more information on our highly creative and specialized in-home dementia care in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas in Broward County.