Kay Bransford has some excellent “do’s” and “don’ts” for visitors – especially those who can’t or don’t visit often – on how to successfully manage your visits to a friend or family member suffering from dementia and/or Alzheimer’s Disease. This list is a list of love, care, and concern.
Dementia changes people in different ways, but there are a few things I found that will make a visit with an old friend easier to manage. My Dad was quieter, but my Mom is feistier.
Research has confirmed that dementia doesn’t magnify traits, but in general can create wholesale personality changes. Don’t be surprised to find the person you are visiting is different than you remember. I hope you will continue to visit, dementia is isolating to those suffering from this disease.
DO’s
- Begin with introductions. With a warm smile and relaxed posture, share a personal connection. Some suggestions that are helpful: “Hi FRIEND, It’s good to see you. You were one of the first people to welcome me into this community and it’s been a while since I’ve seen you” or “Hi FRIEND. It’s a pleasure to see you today. I was thinking about all the fun we had…
View original post 351 more words
Going Gentle Into That Good Night 
Also re-blogged, with other stuff
http://wp.me/p1LY0z-1Ho
Pingback: WHAT IS DEMENTIA? | tongkk