Tips for Visiting a Loved One Diagnosed with Dementia or Alzheimer’s

Caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s can be challenging. You may not be sure of how or when to offer help or how to cope with behavioural changes and mood swings. The following tips can help you provide the best care possible and maintain a positive relationship with your loved one.

Tips for facilitating daily life

These conditions affect the patient’s short-term memory first, which can make it difficult to keep track of what they need to do on a daily basis. The best tip is to establish daily routines that become part of long-term memory. They can help patients reduce stress and preserve their independence and cognitive function.

Maintaining these routines takes commitment. The caring, well-trained, and supportive staff at our retirement homes in your area can help develop a healthy routine your loved one can stick to, keeping them mentally, physically and socially engaged.

Tips for visiting a loved one with dementia

When planning a visit with a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, try to keep it short, relaxed and intimate. Feel free to bring pets and children but be sure to set expectations with your child beforehand. With understanding, patience and planning, your visits can be a great way to make your loved one feel cared for and socially connected and improve their overall health and well-being.

Tips for communicating with people diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s

Communication can be challenging for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s. The following tips will allow you to help them communicate better:

• Keep it positive. Set the tone with a warm smile and a pleasant demeanour that shows genuine support and affection. Don’t get frustrated with repetitive questions.
• Slow down. Swap the frenzied pace of the modern world for slower conversations that focus on one topic, one question or one comment at a time.
• Be clear. Use simple language and enunciate clearly so your loved one can follow along without difficulty.
• Make sure you have their attention. Conversation is a two-way street. Take note of body language cues to ensure that you have their attention and allow them to speak for themselves.
• Reminisce. Many people living with dementia can recall long-term memories, but don’t ask them if they remember something. Doing this can make them feel pressured. Instead, gently steer the conversation towards fond memories by talking about your own recollections or stories.
• Comfort. Bring soft touches from home such as favourite pillows, blankets, stuffed animals or even some of their favourite music to listen to during your visit.

Find Reassurance in our Retirement Communities Across Canada

At Retirement Concepts, we’re committed to helping your loved one continue to thrive as they grow older and their needs change. With our many locations in British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec, we’re always close by. Contact us to learn more about our retirement homes and the unique activities we offer at each one.

For additional resources or information regarding Alzheimer’s, please visit one of our proud partners the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.