Have you witnessed a loved one with dementia trying to eat something that clearly isn’t food—like a napkin, button, or bar of soap? It can take you by surprise, but this type of behavior is more common than you might think. It’s called pica, and it’s one of several alarming dementia-related behaviors that can leave families feeling confused and concerned.
Pica refers to the compulsion to eat items that are not food, including things like fabric, dirt, or soap. Though it’s often linked to childhood behavior or nutritional deficiencies, it can also appear in adults with cognitive impairments like dementia. Recognizing why pica occurs and knowing how to respond can help reduce anxiety and keep your loved one safe.
Why Do People with Dementia Develop Pica?
Dementia affects various areas of the brain, leading to confusion and unusual eating behaviors. The development of pica may be caused by:
Cognitive Decline: As dementia progresses, the brain loses the ability to distinguish between edible and inedible objects, leading to accidental ingestion.
Sensory Needs: Many individuals with dementia experience a heightened need for oral stimulation or may crave different textures in their mouths.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in important vitamins and minerals like zinc or iron can lead to cravings for inedible items.
Hunger or Thirst: If a person isn’t consuming enough food or liquids, they might start trying to eat whatever is at hand.
Medication Side Effects: Some medications can change the way a person perceives taste or affect their appetite, leading to strange food cravings.
Emotional Stress: Stress, boredom, or anxiety can also trigger pica as a way to cope with distressing emotions.
How to Help a Loved One With Pica
If your loved one with dementia is engaging in pica, it can be stressful. But how you respond can make all the difference in managing the behavior. Here are some tips for dealing with pica in a compassionate way:
Don’t React with Anger. It’s important to stay calm. Reacting with frustration or anger can worsen the situation. Instead, remove the object and gently distract them with something else.
Ensure They’re Eating Enough. Pica can be triggered by hunger, so it’s crucial to ensure your loved one is eating regular, balanced meals. Offering snacks with varying textures, such as crunchy vegetables or soft fruit, can help satisfy oral cravings.
Remove Potentially Dangerous Items. Keep non-food items like paper or small household objects out of sight or stored securely. This will help prevent your loved one from trying to eat these items.
Provide Chewable Alternatives. Offering alternatives such as sugar-free gum, a soft snack, or a safe chew toy can address the need for oral stimulation.
Consult with a Doctor. If pica develops suddenly, it could be linked to a nutritional deficiency. A doctor can run tests to determine if there are any underlying health concerns.
Provide Mental Stimulation. Distraction can sometimes be the best solution. Keeping your loved one engaged in activities like folding clothes, playing games, or listening to their favorite music may reduce the urge to eat non-food objects.
We’re Here to Support You
Caring for someone with dementia presents many challenges, and pica is just one of the hurdles. At JFS Care, we specialize in dementia care, providing personalized support to families across Brentwood, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and throughout Los Angeles County. If you need help, don’t hesitate to call us at (213) 383-2273.