If you have wondered how to make the
most of your time when you visit
a relative or friend suffering from Alzheimer’s
or another form of dementia, take some tips from the experts. They have the experience to help your visit
go more smoothly.
Their first tip is to adjust to your
loved one as they are now and do not expect to have the same type of
conversations with them as you once did.
As dementia care specialist Vivian Green Korner explains, “Conversations
may become less intellect to intellect and more emotion to emotion.”
Another thing, focus on what the
person still has rather than focusing on what they have lost. They may enjoy stories about the past as well
as love hearing music that reminds them of when they were young. Anthony Cirillo, president of The Aging
Experience and host of the Virtual Summit for Caregivers, say that, “Music activates
something in people no matter how advanced their dementia.” Also it may be helpful to bring photos, books
or even tasty treats to share with your loved one.
In addition don’t waste time asking a
lot of questions that may just confuse the person, instead, just live in the
moment. Talk about things you are seeing
such as the color of the leaves on a tree outside the window or a pretty
picture in the room. If the person
appears to be getting agitated, suggest getting up and taking a little walk as
often a change of scenery can help to change their mood.
Remember it is important to make eye
contact as a lot of your communication with the person will be non-verbal. Experts also suggest touching a person before
you start to speak as touch is a powerful communicator especially as their verbal skills are starting to diminish.
MorningStar
at Englefield Green is a senior living community devoted to
caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. As dementia specialists, we understand the
disease and provide care that treats the individual with the dignity and
respect they deserve. Please see
our website for more.
MorningStar at Englefield Green
embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of
“to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living
communities. With a foundation built on
honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to
serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like
setting. Please set up a tour to see for
yourself our unique approach to memory care.
Source:
caring.com/articles/tips-visiting-someone-dementia
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