7 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.
Don’t say, Do you remember?
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.
Don’t Talk Around or Over Them
If there is a third person in the room, you may be tempted to talk with that person because it’s easier. This leaves the person with dementia sitting there watching the conversation and not understanding most of it. Then, while you may go home and feel like you did your duty and paid a visit, what happened was you visited the wrong person. Include that person…
Helpful Tools:
Wetness indicator and alert to help manage incontinence with dignity. SenecaSense Home: Discreet Support That Restores Comfort and Confidence
Stay connected with Memoryboard: Designed by caregivers. Memoryboard helps families share reminders, messages, updates, and photos on an easy-to-use screen designed for people with dementia. Peace of mind for families, independence for loved ones.
Leslie Kernisan, MD, MPH, has opened up support! View two free caregiving webinars that can help you help your older parents (and yourself).
Discover the Difference. EGOSAN: The premium incontinence brand caregivers love: They save work! Now Available on Amazon.
Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories: “…This book is for all of us; let it help you cope! Thank you to the author and everyone she spoke with!” …Dolores
