This is just one example of why im wondering if my aunt that I take care of has dementia going on. I was going to leave the house at 4:00 to take kids to grandmas house,while I was in her apt. Which is connected to our home she says make sure the stove is turned off, not a problem its not been turned on. And lock the front door. Ok. Make sure your dog is in his. Bed(kennel) ok. Then I stood there while she went through it all again, ok now you will check and make sure the stove is turned off,yes Its not been used but I will check it before I leave, ok and your dog will be in his bed? Yes, ok just close and lock the front door f you want. Ok honey it will be closed and locked. Then before I walk outta the room she goes through it all again!!!! About 15 min later the kids come get me, she wants you mom. I go to her door,do you need something honey, yeah now you were gonna go about 4? Yes, ok now make sure the stove is off.......and went through the whole spill again for the fourth time. Now she's smart, handles her own money,sets up her own pills everyday,I just help her at bedtime with her med routine. She remembers to brush her teeth most of the time. Everything
I have taught students with traumatic brain injuries for over thirty years and have discovered that a written checklist I can hand a child will assist with anxiety about certain issues. Even colored magnets will act as symbols, sometimes, that will remind someone that you have turned off the stove, etc. I agree that a doctor needs to know about these behaviors ASAP. Also,many books that can be found at the library will give you much better strategies to help you and your aunt. Best wishes! RLP