Managing Dementia: Tools for Rooting and Fecal Messes

Caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s often brings unpredictable challenges, and one of the most difficult to manage is when they begin rooting or making a mess with feces. This behavior can be overwhelming, but there are tools and strategies that can help, even when professional home health care isn’t available 24/7. If the stress of managing this becomes unmanageable, it may be time to consider escalating care with additional skilled services.

Understanding the Behavior

Rooting or playing with feces often stems from discomfort, anxiety, or the cognitive changes associated with dementia. Your loved one may be trying to relieve an itch, exploring textures, or even attempting to communicate discomfort they can’t express verbally. While it’s a distressing situation, remember that it’s a symptom of the disease, not deliberate behavior.

Tools to Manage the Behavior

When professional home health care isn’t available, equipping yourself with the right tools and strategies can make this situation more manageable:

1. Protective Clothing

• Adult incontinence briefs can make changes easier and faster.
• Full-body onesies or zip-up pajamas can prevent access to the diaper area.
• Waterproof and washable bed and furniture covers help protect your home and reduce stress.

2. Hygiene Supplies

• Keep disposable gloves, wipes, and sanitizing sprays readily available.
• Use odor-neutralizing products to maintain a clean and comfortable environment.

3. Tactile Distractions

• Offer sensory items, such as fidget blankets, textured toys, or activity boards, to keep their hands occupied.
• Create a busy box with safe, engaging items that satisfy their need for touch and manipulation.

4. Environmental Adjustments

• Use door alarms or monitoring devices to limit access to areas where messes might occur.
• Label the bathroom clearly or use signs to guide them to the right place.

Medication and Monitoring

In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage the anxiety, agitation, or restlessness that leads to rooting behavior. If the situation is becoming unmanageable, it’s time to consult your loved one’s doctor or home health team about potential medical interventions.

• Be prepared for change. Medications may need to be adjusted as dementia progresses.
• Regular communication with your doctor or home health provider ensures your loved one’s care plan stays effective.

Recognizing When It’s Time for More Help

Managing this behavior on your own is not only exhausting but can also take an emotional toll. If you’re finding it harder to cope or noticing that this behavior is affecting your ability to provide care, it may be a sign that more help is needed.

Home health services can escalate care to meet your loved one’s changing needs. Skilled professionals can provide:

• Advanced hygiene assistance to ensure your loved one stays clean and comfortable.
• Behavioral interventions to help manage challenging symptoms.
• Regular monitoring to address health changes before they escalate.
• Care coordination with your loved one’s doctor to adjust medications and treatments as necessary.

Adding more skilled services can relieve some of the burden and allow you to focus on your role as a family member rather than a full-time caregiver.

You’re Not Alone

Caring for a loved one with dementia is one of the hardest jobs anyone can face, especially when unexpected behaviors arise. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed—it’s a sign that you’re giving it your all. But it’s also a sign that it might be time to get more help.

At Onyx Home Care, we understand how hard it is to navigate these challenges alone. Our skilled caregivers and professionals are here to step in with compassion, expertise, and tailored care that fits your family’s needs. Let us help you manage the tough moments, so you can focus on cherishing the good ones.

If you’re ready to explore additional support for your loved one, contact us today. Together, we can create a care plan that provides the peace of mind you deserve.