Do’s and Don’ts for Visiting Someone with Dementia

Visiting someone with dementia can be a rewarding experience, but it also requires sensitivity and understanding. By following these guidelines, you can make your visit enjoyable and meaningful for both you and the person with dementia.

Do’s

• Be patient and understanding. People with dementia may experience cognitive changes that can affect their memory, communication, and behaviour. Be patient and understanding, and avoid becoming frustrated.
• Keep it simple. Avoid overwhelming the person with dementia by keeping your conversation simple and focused on familiar topics. Use short sentences and avoid using complex language.
• Use their name. Calling the person by their name can help them feel more connected to you.
• Focus on the present. Avoid dwelling on the past or future, as this can be confusing for people with dementia. Instead, focus on the present moment and engage in activities that are enjoyable for both of you.
• Use visual cues. Pictures, photos, and objects can help trigger memories and improve communication. Bring along items that are meaningful to the person with dementia, such as family photos or favourite objects.
• Be positive and encouraging. A positive and encouraging attitude can help create a pleasant and supportive environment. Avoid negative or critical comments.
• Offer help, but don’t insist. Be willing to offer help when needed, but don’t insist on doing things for the person if they can do them themselves.
• Listen actively. Pay attention to what the person is saying and show that you are interested in their conversation. Avoid interrupting or talking over them.
• Be mindful of their surroundings. Create a calm and comfortable environment by minimizing distractions and noise.
• Respect their privacy. If the person with dementia seems uncomfortable or withdrawn, respect their privacy and give them space.

Don’ts

• Don’t argue or correct them. If the person with dementia becomes confused or disoriented, avoid arguing or correcting them. Instead, try to redirect their attention to a different topic.
• Don’t assume they don’t understand. Even if the person has difficulty communicating, they may still understand what you are saying. Avoid talking about them as if they are not present.
• Don’t dwell on their symptoms. Avoid focusing on the person’s symptoms or limitations. Instead, focus on their strengths and abilities.
• Don’t pressure them to remember. If the person has difficulty remembering things, don’t pressure them to recall details. Instead, focus on creating positive experiences together.
• Don’t treat them like a child. People with dementia are adults who deserve to be treated with respect. Avoid talking down to them or treating them like a child.
• Don’t make promises you can’t keep. Avoid making promises that you may not be able to fulfil. This can lead to disappointment and frustration.
• Don’t bring up sensitive topics. Avoid discussing sensitive topics, such as their health or finances, that may cause stress or anxiety.
• Don’t compare them to their former self. It is important to accept the person with dementia as they are now, rather than comparing them to their former self.
• Don’t isolate them. Encourage social interaction and involvement in activities that the person enjoys.

By following these guidelines, you can make your visits to someone with dementia enjoyable and meaningful. Remember to be patient, understanding, and supportive.

Additional Tips

• Plan your visit. Let the person know when you are coming and what you plan to do. This can help them prepare and reduce anxiety.
• Bring a gift. A small gift, such as flowers or a favourite snack, can be a thoughtful gesture.
• Be aware of the person’s routine. Try to visit at a time that is convenient for them and avoids disrupting their daily routine.
• Offer to help with tasks. If the person needs help with daily tasks, such as getting dressed or eating, offer to assist them.
• Be patient with their pace. Allow the person to move at their own pace and avoid rushing them.
• Enjoy the experience. Visiting someone with dementia can be a rewarding experience. Take time to enjoy the person’s company and create positive memories together.

By following these tips, you can make your visits to someone with dementia enjoyable and meaningful for both of you. Remember to be patient, understanding, and supportive.