Vitalia Active Adult Community – Rockside Discusses How to Have Meaningful Visits With Someone Living With Dementia

Dementia is an umbrella term for loss of memory and other thinking abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. When someone is diagnosed with dementia, at least two parts of the brain are dying. Dementia is progressive, chronic, and terminal, which creates many challenges.  Relationships continue to be vital to families, regardless of a dementia diagnosis. At VITALIA Active Adult Community – Rockside we have some ideas and suggestions to help you have successful visits with your loved ones.

Friends and family significantly impact the visit. A positive mindset and a smile always go a long way when visiting your loved one with dementia. Family members can make the visit more pleasant by participating in the events happening in The Neighborhood along with their loved one. They should bring picture albums, self-care supplies, or their loved one’s favorite snacks to make the experience go more smoothly.

There are better times than others to visit someone with dementia. It is important, when visiting, to understand when your loved one with dementia is at their best. Being aware of their routine can help everyone have a successful experience.

Ending a visit with a loved one can be extremely difficult for both parties; however, phrasing your departure as, “be right back” or “having to return to work,” are all harmless ways to end your visit. With understanding someone with dementia and their daily routine, you can manage your visit around certain times to transition your departure without harsh “goodbyes.”

We hope this information has given you some fresh tips and ideas for visiting someone living with dementia. Quality connections are essential for the person living with the disease, as well as yourself. If your visit still doesn’t go well, don’t beat yourself up. Every day is a new day. Be patient and you will figure out what works best. Giving your time to someone living with dementia is the best gift possible.