People living with dementia have the same need for connection as everyone else. Every interaction—whether during dressing, meals, or daily activities—is an opportunity to engage with them in a meaningful way. Connecting with people suffering from dementia isn’t just about completing tasks; it’s about making them feel valued and involved.
Creating Meaningful Moments
Instead of rushing through daily routines, turn them into moments of engagement:
• While dressing, offer choices: “Do you like the blue shirt or the pink one?”
• During room cleaning, invite them to help: “Want to hand me the blankets?”
• When serving food, add a personal touch: “Here’s your spaghetti with two meatballs, just how you like it!”
These small efforts can make a big difference in connecting with people suffering from dementia and making them feel included.
Using Life History for Connection
Many care facilities use a life history in dementia care form to learn about residents’ past experiences, hobbies, and preferences. If one doesn’t exist, speaking with family members or creating a memory box with personal items can help build deeper connections. Knowing a person’s background is key to person-centered care and helps caregivers engage in ways that are meaningful to them.
Everyone Can Make a Difference
Engagement isn’t just the responsibility of activity staff. Whether you’re a caregiver, cook, or administrator, you can play a role in connecting with people suffering from dementia:
• A cook can share a meal and reminisce with residents.
• An administrator who enjoys knitting can sit and knit with a resident who shares the same interest.
• A simple greeting like “I’m so happy to see you this morning!” can set a positive tone for the day.
Encouraging Independence
Maintaining self-worth and independence is crucial in dementia support. Instead of doing everything for them, involve them in their own care:
• Let them pick an outfit or button their shirt.
• Compliment their choices: “This color looks amazing on you!”
• While brushing their hair, make it fun: “Let’s make you look even more fabulous today!”
When we focus on connecting with people suffering from dementia, we create moments of joy, dignity, and purpose. And that’s what truly matters in person-centered care.
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