Mar 23
Patsy Pope
Chewing on objects; common in dementia
23 Mar, 2015. 0 Comments. News. Posted By: Patsy Pope
Elders in severe stage dementia often have a need to chew or suck on objects. Objects such as clothing, wood, leather, other people even, which can all seem inappropriate and disturbing to carers. The drive behind the behaviour is a need for comfort. Just as infants like to suck or bite, so do elderly in the severe stage of a dementia journey. It brings sensory stimulation, a rhythmic movement and a sense of security. As we want to fill this need and bring that much needed security and comfort to the person, we should assist in finding the right, safe,…
Mar 1
Patsy Pope
I am often asked this question by carers. It's a fair question with ethical and moral issues attached. As someone who has worked in mental health for most of my thirty five year career, the question is easy; you enter a person's reality not to cause emotions harm. The above article by the John Schmid explains the concept better than I ever could, have a read, and take guidance.