Friday, March 13, 2009

understanding dementia behavior, part one.

we certainly aren't born with knowing how to communicate with someone who has dementia. but the good news is that we can learn. let me give you some tips.


first tip from fca: set a positive mood for interaction. your attitude and your body language communicate you feelings and thoughts stronger than your words. set a positive mood by speaking to your loved one in a pleasant and respectful manner. use facial expressions, tone of voice and physical touch to help convey your message and show your feelings of affection.

my addition to this tip: do not treat the patient with dementia like they are a five year old. turn off your cutesy voice and turn on your adult voice. if you've never been rainbows and butterflies don't all of a sudden start. be yourself. but check your stuff at the door. don't bring in your angry feelings and your bad day to your demented grandpa. not only does he not care, he doesn't need your added stress. and just because someone has dementia, it does NOT mean they are stupid. try not to talk to them like they are.

the majority of the above information is from one of my favorite sources: family caregiver alliance, www.caregiver.org

read my disclaimer here.

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