When a loved one receives dementia care, it usually means there will be some adjustments in how you interact with them. In many cases, they may be more forgetful and confused, and may not behave the way you expect. With a thoughtful and loving approach, though, you can make the most of these interactions and find ways to be there for them. Here’s a guide to best practices for spending time with a loved one in dementia care

Suggestions for Interacting With a Loved One Receiving Dementia Care

1. Use Names Frequently

Since dementia directly affects one’s memory, it’s useful to give your loved one as much help as you can in the form of little reminders. In addition to speaking with clarity, try to use names frequently as opposed to pronouns like “him” and “her.” Using specific names will help your relative to stay plugged into the conversation, and can ground him or her. Additionally, you can help avoid distress by clearly identifying yourself as soon as you arrive. 

2. Bring Positivity

A person receiving dementia care may not fully comprehend the conversation you have with him or her but he or she is still extremely sensitive to the mood you put off. Bringing in cheer and positivity can quickly have a contagious effect and lift your loved one’s spirits. If he or she gets stuck, can’t remember something, or find him or herself confused, avoid overcorrecting your loved one. By responding with kindness and a series of affirmations, you’ll give him or her a feeling of comfort and love. 

3. Tap Into Long-Term Memories

It’s common for many people struggling with dementia to struggle with short-term memory, like what they had for breakfast that day, but many of their memories from the deeper past stay intact. It’s a useful strategy to play into strong long-term memories. That means avoiding peppering your loved one with questions about recent activities — being unable to answer can lead to frustration. Instead, bring up childhood memories and steer the conversation toward a time they may remember much better. 

If your loved one needs professional dementia care, there are amazing memory care facilities like Bethany St. Joseph Corporation’s facilities which offer constant support. With first-rate skilled nursing facilities in La Crosse, Onalaska, Galesville, and Westby in Wisconsin, your family member will receive the care and socialization he or she needs to be happy and more present in later years. To find out more about the centers’ dementia care programs, call (608) 788-5700. Learn more about the facilities by visiting the website.