Visiting Someone with Dementia

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, says 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 Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with a mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Built on a foundation of honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we are committed to creating a true home for residents. Contact us to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional community.

Source: caring.com/articles/tips-visiting-someone-dementia