Visiting a loved one with dementia in a memory care center can be a challenging and overwhelming experience. This blog will provide information on the dos and don’ts of visiting a loved one with dementia in memory care units in Jensen Beach, FL.
Dos and Don’ts of Visiting Your Loved Ones with Dementia
It can be difficult to know how to best interact with someone who has dementia and how to make the most of your visits. Here are the dos and don’ts of visiting your loved ones with dementia to make the visit more meaningful and enjoyable for both of you.
Do Prepare in Advance
Before you visit, it’s important to prepare yourself and your loved one. Talk to the team at the memory care center to learn how best to interact with your loved one. It’s also a good idea to bring along photos or other mementos that will help bring back memories.
Do Make Time for Conversation
Make sure you leave plenty of time for conversation. Dementia can make it difficult for your loved one to engage in conversation and remember what was said, but allowing them to do so is important. Ask questions about the past and share stories from your own life. You may even find that your loved one can recall more than you think.
Do Participate in Activities
Memory care centers often offer a variety of activities and programs that can help keep your loved one engaged and active. Participating in these activities can be a great way to spend time with your loved one. It can also benefit both of you to focus on something other than dementia.
Do Be Patient
Visiting someone with dementia can be frustrating, as they may be unable to recall things or communicate properly. It’s important to remain patient and understanding. Remember that your loved one is still the same person and may just need a little extra time and patience as they cope with the changes dementia has caused.
Do Follow Up After Your Visit
Make sure to follow up after your visit. Check in with the team at the memory care center to see how your loved one is doing. You can also keep in touch with your loved one by writing letters, sending cards, or calling. These little gestures can mean a lot to someone living with dementia.
Don’t Push for Answers
Dementia can affect a person’s memory, making it difficult to remember things. Asking too many questions may cause frustration or confusion. Instead, focus on the present moment and try to have a meaningful conversation.
Don’t Bring Up the Past
When visiting someone with dementia, focusing on the present is important. Bringing up memories from the past can sometimes be confusing and upsetting for someone struggling with dementia.
Don’t Be Too Loud
It’s important to remember that dementia can affect a person’s senses. Loud noises can make it difficult for them to concentrate or have a meaningful conversation. Try to keep your voice at a comfortable level.
Don’t Be Too Physically Affectionate
Dementia can affect a person’s perception of physical contact. Before touching them, make sure they are comfortable. Respect their boundaries, and don’t be too pushy.
Don’t Be Judgmental
Dementia can affect a person’s behavior and reasoning. It’s important to remember that they may be unable to control their actions. Be patient, and don’t be too critical.
