It can be difficult to adjust when a person you love is diagnosed with dementia. Over 15 million people in the United States care for someone with the disease, and while the relationship can be rewarding, it can also be overwhelming and challenging. Connecting with your loved one can be tricky if you have no experience, but if done correctly it will aid you in maintaining your healthy, loving relationship in ways they will thrive in spite of their disease.
Here are some ways you can connect with your loved one:
1 - Be present. Spending time with them does not automatically mean filling the silence with words. Sometimes just being there is enough.
2 - Experience Music. The part of the brain that processes music remains vibrant into the late stages of dementia. Music can help your loved one spark memories and connections to their life, and can create a more meaningful connection between the two of you.
3 - Maintain your sense of humor. Those with dementia tend to retain these types of social skills and will be delighted to laugh with you.
4 - Avoid asking questions concerning short term memory. Instead, give them the opportunity to remember things from their long lives.
5 - Always respond to them with affection and reassurance. Verbal and physical expressions of comfort can keep them from being overly anxious or confused.
6 - Limit distractions. Extra noise, such as TV and radio, can make it hard for your loved one to focus on your presence.
7 - Speak clearly in a calm, soothing voice. Refrain from any condescending remarks or tones of voice.
Overall, just remember to have patience with them. They’re doing the best they can, and your love is very valuable to their continued health and wellbeing.
For more information, visit:
https://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/7-31-15-ways-to-connect-with-loved-ones-with-dementia/
Here are some ways you can connect with your loved one:
1 - Be present. Spending time with them does not automatically mean filling the silence with words. Sometimes just being there is enough.
2 - Experience Music. The part of the brain that processes music remains vibrant into the late stages of dementia. Music can help your loved one spark memories and connections to their life, and can create a more meaningful connection between the two of you.
3 - Maintain your sense of humor. Those with dementia tend to retain these types of social skills and will be delighted to laugh with you.
4 - Avoid asking questions concerning short term memory. Instead, give them the opportunity to remember things from their long lives.
5 - Always respond to them with affection and reassurance. Verbal and physical expressions of comfort can keep them from being overly anxious or confused.
6 - Limit distractions. Extra noise, such as TV and radio, can make it hard for your loved one to focus on your presence.
7 - Speak clearly in a calm, soothing voice. Refrain from any condescending remarks or tones of voice.
Overall, just remember to have patience with them. They’re doing the best they can, and your love is very valuable to their continued health and wellbeing.
For more information, visit:
https://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/7-31-15-ways-to-connect-with-loved-ones-with-dementia/
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