Should I be worried about my husband's recent obsession with is own body?
A fellow caregiver asked...
My husband has post traumatic dementia from 2 severe head injuries. He is still able to do quite a few things, but is getting quite obsessed with his own body. I will find him standing in front of a mirror just looking and handling his body parts. When he sees me he stops. Do I need to be worried about this?
Expert Answer
Deborah Cooke is a gerontologist specializing in dementia, delirium, caregiving, and senior fitness. She is a certified dementia care provider and specialist through the Alzheimer's Foundation of America. Cooke currently manages several multidisciplinary programs to enhance well-being for hospitalized seniors and other vulnerable patients at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital in New York City. She also serves on the board of NewYork-Presbyterian's Patient and Family Education Advisory Committee. She has 18 years of experience working with the aging and caregiver communities.
I'm sure this behavior is shocking and uncomfortable for you. It more than likely is a part of his dementia process. As long as he isn't causing anyone harm, he is OK. It's when others' safety is compromised that this is not good. We are all sexual beings and those needs and desires still need to be filled, someway...