The person usually does not remember asking. The repetition is often a sign of something else: anxiety, boredom, a need for reassurance, or an unmet need they can no longer put into words.
Arguing or pointing out that they have already asked rarely helps. Answering calmly, looking for what is behind the question, and offering an activity tend to work better.
Why it matters
It is one of the most wearing behaviours for a caregiver, and it becomes easier once it is read as a message rather than a memory lapse.
Sources
Where to check this, and where to read more. All external and all authoritative.
Repetition where you live
The local guide on this, for each city we cover.
- Baltimore, MD
- Boston, MA
- Buffalo, NY
- Charlotte, NC
- Chicago, IL
- Columbus, OH
- Dallas, TX
- Denver, CO
- Detroit, MI
- Houston, TX
- Los Angeles, CA
- Memphis, TN
- Milwaukee, WI
- New York, NY
- Philadelphia, PA
- Phoenix, AZ
- San Antonio, TX
- San Diego, CA
- Seattle, WA
- Tucson, AZ