Rummaging in Dementia-What, Why, and How to Help
Rummaging is a common behavior seen in individuals with dementia, yet it is often misunderstood or overlooked. As caregivers and loved ones, it’s crucial to understand what rummaging in dementia is, why it happens, and how we can support those experiencing it.
In this post, I’ll offer some tips on how to manage this behavior with compassion and understanding.
What is Rummaging in Dementia?
Rummaging is one of the most common dementia behaviors. It involves the act of searching through items, often repeatedly and with a sense of urgency or agitation. Rummaging can manifest in in many ways, such as sorting through drawers, cupboards and random personal items or it may involve rearranging or moving objects in a seemingly disorganized manner.
Rummaging is often more prevalent during the evening or night hours however can occur at any time of day. It can be frustrating for caregivers and family members who may not understand why it is happening. It can be equally frustrating for the rummager.
Why do people with dementia rummage?
Understanding the underlying reasons for rummaging is crucial. Individuals with dementia may engage in this behavior due to several factors:
- Memory Loss: Rummaging can be a way for individuals to search for familiar items or memories. They may be trying to find something specific, such as a sentimental object or seeking a sense of familiarity.
- Stimulation: Rummaging can provide sensory stimulation, which is particularly important for individuals with dementia who may be experiencing a decline in sensory input.
- Emotional Expression: Rummaging can be a way for individuals to express emotions such as anxiety, boredom, or frustration. It can serve as a coping mechanism for dealing with unfamiliar or uncomfortable situations.
- Environmental Cues: Certain environmental factors, such as clutter or the arrangement of objects, can trigger rummaging behavior. Individuals may feel compelled to search through items in response to these cues.
- Boredom: With nothing to do, they may be seeking engagement, enjoyment, or excitement. They may be unsure of what they are supposed to be doing and rummaging may provide a sense of purpose, relieving feelings of distress and confusion.
How does rummaging affect people with dementia?
Rummaging can have both positive and negative effects on people with dementia. On the positive side, rummaging can provide a sense of comfort and security. It can also provide a sense of purpose, alleviating boredom and restlessness. In some cases, rummaging can also help to reduce anxiety and agitation as it is a distraction from these feelings. Generally, if the person rummaging is happy and not creating a risk for themselves or others, it is ok to let them rummage.
Unfortunately there can be negative consequences of rummaging. It can be frustrating and overwhelming for caregivers and family members who may not understand why it is happening. Rummaging can also be dangerous, as people with dementia rummage through items that are not safe, such as cleaning supplies or medications. Rummaging can also be time-consuming and may interfere with the person’s ability to engage in other activities.
How can caregivers and family members help?
Because rummaging is one of the most common dementia behaviors, it is important that caregivers know how they can help. Supporting individuals who rummage requires patience, empathy, and creativity. Here are some tips to help you provide effective support:
- Create a Safe Environment: Reduce clutter and organize items in a way that is familiar and easy to navigate. Consider using labels or color-coding to help individuals locate items more easily. Put locks on cupboards and cabinets that have unsafe items in them, such as chemicals.
- Provide Purposeful Activities: Engage individuals in meaningful activities that can help redirect their focus and reduce the urge to rummage. Activities such as folding laundry, sorting items, or simple crafts can be both stimulating and calming. Try to incorporate previous hobbies, such as painting or gardening, into daily life.
- Validate Their Feelings: Acknowledge the emotions behind the rummaging behavior. Offer reassurance and comfort, and avoid criticizing or dismissing their actions.
- Monitor Safety: Ensure that the environment is safe and that individuals do not have access to potentially harmful items. Consider using locks or childproofing measures if necessary.
- Seek Professional Help: If rummaging becomes disruptive or harmful, consider seeking advice from healthcare professionals or dementia specialists. They can provide additional strategies and support tailored to your loved one’s needs.
- Create a Rummage Box: Creating a safe rummage box or rummage are may be beneficial. A box full of familiar clothing, pictures, blankets, and other familiar items may provide an activity that is comforting and eliminates boredom safely.
Rummage Box Ideas...
An designated rummaging area can be simple, like in the picture above. Each bin could have special items for them to find and sort. One box could have pictures, another old movies or records, anything you think will provide stimulation and comfort while maintaining safety works!
Rummage box ideas...
-photos of family, old photos of their parents
-newspaper clippings, both new and old
-hobby items they used to enjoy such as wool for knitting, an old camera for photography, etc.
-items that identify animals they love, images or stuffed toys of cats for example
-seasonal items they enjoy such as Christmas decorations or Easter themed items
-familiar clothing such as socks, shirts, scarves, purse
-fake money, wallet, fake cheques for those who worry about finances
-greeting cards for special occasions
-cheap jewelry
-measuring spoons for the baker
-baby clothes for those who love children
-anything else specific to them that they will enjoy and relate to
Rummaging is a complex behavior with various underlying causes. By understanding why individuals with dementia rummage and how we can support them, we can enhance their quality of life and foster a more compassionate caregiving environment. Remember, each person’s experience with dementia is unique, so it’s essential to approach rummaging with patience, empathy, and a willingness to adapt to their changing needs.
Remember...effective interventions for rummaging in dementia is possible! You can help 🩷
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