Follow
Share

We have cameras installed to keep an eye on MIL with advanced dementia. We live with her. Latest thing is fondling with her breasts/chest once we put her to bed. She's been quite tactile while awake during the day, smoothing tissue, sheets, paper, blankets, clothing, you name it. This new thing obviously isn't hurting anyone, but wondered if others have seen this stage. Cameras are wonderful, by the way ... my husband caught her unscrewing lightbulb other day ... "Trying to turn it on" she said ...eeekk!

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Sounds like a harmless and actually pretty common activity to me, with or without dementia.
Helpful Answer (2)
Report

I wouldn't be concerned. It may just be self-soothing behavior.
Helpful Answer (2)
Report

Thank you!!! I'm not worried about it and agree it's probably self soothing ... whatever works ... Just new and different. Her brother wandered around unclothed, bless his heart.
Helpful Answer (2)
Report

Thanks for the information.....another thing to be aware of.
Helpful Answer (2)
Report

Linda33, I remember reading that 75% of women wear the wrong size bra, and I wonder if she wears a bra during the day, and it is uncomfortable.... maybe she is trying to rid the pain.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

Get her a teddy bear and a plush blanket. Satisfy the tactile need.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

Linda33, I have the same exact book you put as your avatar!!! Title: "Creating Moments of Joy". ISBN-13: 978-1-55753-462-0
Author: Jolene Brackey, from which I will quote: "Experience is your best teacher".

M88
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

Pam, why? What is wrong with fondling herself in her own bed?
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

Jeanne, nothing wrong with it at all. I just know that teddy bears and soft blankets make little kids happy. And fur coats too.
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

She hasn't worn a bra for several years, but does wear a camisole during the day. We've been checking in on her via cameras for several months and this is just new behavior. Great tool, btw, has given us some of our life back (like watching a movie together in another room ... It's the little things). I like the Teddy bear idea, thank you!
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

I think I'll be more concerned if she starts to do this out in the kitchen during the day. She does start to undress herself sometimes.
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

What anyone does in their own bed is none of your business
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

I feel like a voyeur just reading this thread, sheesh give the woman a little privacy, is it really necessary to watch her so closely?
Helpful Answer (3)
Report

Only looking for helpful comments here and no judgment; sorry if this makes anyone uncomfortable. Definitely not getting any cheap thrills with this job.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

Yeah a bit intrusive with cams but I guess
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

Been caregiving for 11+ years .... people use cameras to watch babies, dogs, why not elderly? It gives us peace of mind, making sure she doesn't fall, or if she did, what exactly happened since you can rewind/review. Beats following her around like a puppy dog! Other family members using them too for their parents. Too bad can't put in nursing/assisted living homes ... you'd be appalled at the lack of care ... imagine the lawsuits! Please don't judge people unless you walk in their shoes.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Ask a Question
Subscribe to
Our Newsletter