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Alexander4 Asked April 2016

My husband who has dementia is constantly picking places on his skin to the point of bleeding. Is this common?

Every day there is something different happening, but this is the latest that concerns me. Besides risk of infection, we are running out of bandages!!!! (a little humor)
Any suggestions?

AgingCareEditor May 2016
Hello Alexander4,

Skin picking is a common issue for many Alzheimer's and dementia patients and a source of frustration for many caregivers. Eyerishlass and Elizabeth49 both provided some useful suggestions. This article may be able to shed some more light on the problem:

Compulsive Skin Picking in the Elderly
https://www.agingcare.com/articles/Compulsive-Skin-Picking-in-the-Elderly-186225.htm

anonymous312924 Apr 2016
I had to deal with this issue awhile back. A nurse suggested that I put mittens on her - not winter ones but special cotton ones for dementia patients. I don't know if your husband would tolerate them, though, and I don't even know if it's a good idea. If he starts picking more in the evening, you could talk to his doctor about Sundowner Syndrome. Even my aunt, who doesn't have dementia, becomes anxious in the evening and begins fidgeting. No matter what, I would consult the doctor because he probably needs a good ointment to prevent infection.

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Eyerishlass Apr 2016
The constant picking may be a sign of anxiety. Has your husband seen his Dr.?

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