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Real members of myALZteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does anyone ever get used to the shadowing? My hubs follows me everywhere even to the bathroom. Drives me crazy! Any suggestions?

A myALZteam Member asked a question 💭
November 22, 2025
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A myALZteam Member

@A myALZteam Member: I’m not sure that anyone gets used to it, but it helps if you keep the Stages chart in mind, because the cognitive age decreases as the Stages increase.

Using Stage 6 as an example:
In terms of cognition, at the beginning of Stage 6, the patient is cognitively like a 5-year old; and by the end of Stage 6 (where my husband is now) they’re a 2 or 3 year old — and toddlers do follow their mothers into the bathroom.

I hope that helps you to deal with it. Hugs.

November 22, 2025
A myALZteam Member

Well, thank God I don’t have that, but I do have some kitties and a little dogs that like to follow me in the bathroom thank you for answering my question so far I don’t have that thank goodness I’m sorry you do. Thank you for answering my question.

November 22, 2025
A myALZteam Member

Shadowing is when a person follows right behind you everywhere you go—like your shadow

November 22, 2025
myALZteam

How can you manage constant shadowing from someone with Alzheimer's?

Shadowing can be exhausting, and many caregivers share this struggle. While it's challenging, there are strategies that may help reduce the stress.

Understanding that this behavior comes from anxiety or fear of being alone might help you feel less Show Full Answer

How can you manage constant shadowing from someone with Alzheimer's?

Shadowing can be exhausting, and many caregivers share this struggle. While it's challenging, there are strategies that may help reduce the stress.

Understanding that this behavior comes from anxiety or fear of being alone might help you feel less frustrated. Your husband isn't doing this to annoy you—his brain is telling him he needs to stay close to feel safe.

Here are some approaches to try:

* Set up activities that keep him occupied while you're nearby—puzzles, folding laundry, or looking at photo albums
* Create a predictable routine so he feels more secure about what's happening next
* Use distraction techniques when you need space—ask him to do a simple task or turn on his favorite TV show
* Consider having another family member or friend spend time with him while you take breaks
* Try establishing a visual cue system where you let him know you'll be "right back"

For bathroom privacy specifically, you might try leaving the door slightly open so he can see you're still there, or have him wait just outside where he can hear you.

Taking regular breaks is essential for your own wellbeing. A myALZteam member mentioned looking into having someone sit with their loved one during these times—this could give you needed breathing room.

November 22, 2025
A myALZteam Member

Yes

November 23, 2025

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