My mother in-law has had Alzheimer's for at least four years. She is getting progressively worse, now forgetting where their bathroom is in there home. She is crying a lot at night and also repeatedly scratching her head, causing sores. My father in-law has had her wear hats to help stop the scratching, but it only works sometimes. Is this head scratching common with Alzheimer's or could it be a medication problem?
Expert Answer by Joyce Simard
The head is an unlikely place for itching, if that is the cause of her scratching her head. Could it be a scalp condition? Perhaps seeing a dermatologist could provide an answer. I think the hat idea is a good one. Have a variety of hats and let her choose the hat for the day. Young people like the knitted hats and they come in a variety of colors. also try to keep her hands busy when she feels like scratching with a variety of sorting activities like separating cards, folding baby clothes, buttons (if she is not in danger of swallowing them) and craft items that are seasonal.
Answer
Certainly it is wise to make sure that there is not something medical happening with your mother's hair, scalp. Also, has she been willing to permit hair washes? Has the type of shampoo/conditioner changed? Is her hair being rinsed thoroughly? Once that is ruled out (and even beforehand), I would defintely observe your mother to see if there is a pattern to her scratching (certain times of day, related to certain activities-or lack of activities) It could be a behavior issue related to anxiety or boredom. It would be interesting to see if the scratching would continue if you could engage her in an activity she would find enjoyable. Think back to what she used to enjoy doing, such as cooking, cleaning, folding laundry, etc. Try getting her to exercise that uses her hands-hitting a balloon tossed to her, etc.
Answer
There's a very good article about the many things that can cause an Alzheimer's patient to pick or scratch at the skin, at:
http://alzheimers.boomja.com/Alzheimer-s-and-Scratching-Picking-Skin-27698.html
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