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Making a Connection in Memory Care

October 13th, 2016

Are you looking for ways to make the most of your visit with a loved one who is living with middle to late stage dementia? Some people seem to have a gift for visiting, but with a little preparation, we can all learn to be good visitors too. Here are some visiting tips gleaned from around the web. 

Timing: Plan your visit for a time recommended by family and care partners.
Introduce yourself: If you sense your loved one’s confusion at your presence, gently remind her of who you are, your relationship with her, and why you have come (to visit).
Cultivate quiet: Take time, give pause and listen. Give your loved one time to process your words and actions. Give him lots of time to respond. Quiet is okay.
Touch: Give your visit the human touch. Most people welcome physical touch, but some may find it threatening. Ask, or let your love one know your intention before reaching for her hand or squeezing his shoulder.
Remember for two: Remember shared experiences. Talk about those memories, but avoid asking if she ‘remembers’.
Be kind: Be kind, respectful and flexible. Be prepared to respond to repeated questions and statements as if it is your first time hearing them. Don’t correct. If your loved one seems to be getting agitated, talk about or do something different.
Engage with items: Bring items to touch, smell and taste. Look through a photo album, listen to music, or read a familiar story aloud.
Do things together: Share an activity, whether it’s a walk or a craft, or creating your own shared book of memories, make it something you can do together on your next visit too.

Photo Credit: Pixaby photo-sharing