Pitfalls to Avoid When Visiting Someone with Dementia

Whether you’re caring for someone with dementia or visiting them from time to time, you’ll want to do your best to make them feel good. No one will ever hit the right note every time but knowledge helps. With that in mind, here are a few pitfalls that you can avoid in order to help make your time with a friend or loved one who has dementia less stressful.

I know. You’re thinking that people with dementia are living in the past. They like to reminisce. However, using the phrase “do you remember” puts the person on the spot. They are frustrated enough about their memory issues and they may not remember that incident. Instead, let them lead. Say, “tell me about when you were a child” or “tell me about you and mom.” Then go where they take you…

View slideshow on HealthCentral with more pitfalls to avoid when visiting someone with dementia:

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