Unplugging Cord for Fear of Fire

ceeb

My mother is in memory care and has been diagnosed with moderate dementia. Lately, and especially when she is staying with one of us children, we find her unplugging everything in her room at the assisted living before she leaves and in her bedroom at our houses when she goes to bed because she’s afraid she’s going to cause a fire. Is this a common thing with people with dementia? She’s 92.

gglorious7

Yes!!! Very common . I was my mothers live in caretaker for 12 years she passed away in 2023 in the comfort of her home. And yes fires was a big thing for my mom she always unplugged everything and checked doors . I just always reassured her and unplugged everything and I would turn off the gas to the stove because sometimes she would leave it on while heating up water for her coffee . You have to make the home to totally accommodate them . We as caregivers come last . Sad but true . They are a round the clock job .

Emily 123

Yes- very common. Choose gifts accordingly, says the person who bought their mom one of those electronic picture frames…lol

JM27

Hi,

Same for my father. I got him a clock with date and time and he never used it kept unplugging it and finally he packed away.

psg712

My mom turned her digital clock face down on her table for a while. Then she unplugged it. Time has no meaning for her anymore...

ceeb

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/230263#Comment_230263

😆 Thanks!

ceeb

Interesting! We bought my mom one of those clocks that tells her the day of the week, time, and date because she constantly asks what day it is and doesn’t know if she’s eaten lunch or dinner because she can’t tell if it’s afternoon or night. I think you’re right that at this point, time is meaningless to her. Thanks!