Why Do People with Dementia Hide Things?

Written by Nguyenjessica

Published on July 28 2025

It can be unsettling when your parent or loved one with dementia begins hiding everyday objects. You might find car keys in the freezer, money tucked inside books, or jewelry hidden under the mattress. While it may seem confusing—or even frustrating—this behavior is actually very common among people living with dementia. Understanding why it happens is the first step toward responding with patience and compassion. In this guide, we’ll explore the reasons behind this behavior, its impact on families, and practical strategies to make life easier for both you and your loved one.

Why Do People with Dementia Hide Things?

Key Points

Hiding objects is a common behavior among people with dementia, often tied to memory loss and feelings of insecurity.

Emotional factors like fear, anxiety, or the desire for control can drive this behavior.

Environmental triggers—such as confusion in new settings—can worsen the tendency to hide items.

Compassionate communication and practical strategies can reduce stress for both the person with dementia and their caregivers.

Creating safe spaces, using memory aids, and maintaining routines can help manage this behavior effectively.

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Table of content

Understanding Dementia and Behavioral Changes

Why People with Dementia Hide Things

Common Items People with Dementia Tend to Hide

The Emotional Impact on Families and Caregivers

When to Seek Professional Guidance

Understanding Dementia and Behavioral Changes

Dementia isn’t just about memory loss—it’s about changes in how the brain processes the world. As cognitive functions decline, a person may experience confusion, anxiety, or mistrust. These emotional responses often lead to behaviors that might seem puzzling, such as hiding everyday objects.

For caregivers, this can be frustrating and emotionally draining. But understanding the “why” behind these behaviors is the first step to responding with patience and compassion.

Why People with Dementia Hide Things

Memory Loss and Confusion

When memory fades, everyday tasks can become overwhelming. Your parent or loved one may put items in unusual places, then forget where they are. To them, hiding items might feel like “putting them in a safe place.” Unfortunately, they often can’t recall that safe place later.

Anxiety and Fear of Loss

Dementia can create a heightened fear of losing control. Hiding valuables—such as wallets, jewelry, or important papers—may give your loved one a sense of security. It’s their way of ensuring these items won’t be “taken” or misplaced, even if ironically, the act of hiding increases the risk of loss.

The Need for Control and Independence

Losing independence is one of the hardest parts of dementia. Hiding things can be an attempt to maintain control. For example, if someone feels others are “taking over” their life, they may hide objects as a form of silent protest or to assert autonomy.

Past Habits and Personality Traits

Some people who were naturally private or protective about their belongings may show stronger tendencies to hide items as dementia progresses. Their lifelong habits and personality traits can resurface more intensely when cognitive decline sets in.

Common Items People with Dementia Tend to Hide

Wallets, purses, and cash – often linked to fears about money or security
Jewelry and watches – sentimental or high-value items
Medications – especially concerning if doses are missed or doubled
Keys – leading to safety concerns if locked doors cannot be opened
Mail and important papers – sometimes hidden in unusual spots like the freezer
Food or snacks – tied to feelings of scarcity or the desire to self-soothe
Understanding the types of items most often hidden can help caregivers know where to look and how to respond calmly.

. The Emotional Impact on Families and Caregivers

For caregivers, discovering hidden or missing items can be frustrating. You may feel blamed when things “go missing” or worry about safety if medications or keys are involved. Repeatedly searching for lost objects can be exhausting and stressful.

Remember: your loved one is not hiding things to upset you. The behavior is a symptom of dementia, not a personal attack. Shifting your perspective from frustration to empathy can make a world of difference.

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When to Seek Professional Guidance

If hiding things escalates to dangerous levels—such as medications being misplaced, or safety items like keys consistently disappearing—it may be time to consult a doctor or dementia care specialist. They can suggest behavioral strategies, support groups, or even medication adjustments to ease anxiety-driven behaviors.

Professional support also gives caregivers reassurance and practical tools to manage daily challenges.