When Someone You Know Is Living in a Dementia Care Community by Rachael Wonderlin

Author:Rachael Wonderlin
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press
Published: 2016-07-14T16:00:00+00:00

VISITING AHEAD OF TIME

Madeline’s family could have taken her to visit the community ahead of time to get her enthused about her new home. They could have shown her to her new room and presented it with a positive attitude. “Wow, Mom, this is a really nice room,” they could have offered. “You have a beautiful view and plenty of space.” They could have taken Madeline on a tour of the community, pointing out great spots to relax and enjoy. Perhaps they could have visited the dining area and even tasted some of the food. By making the new environment an exciting and happy one, the family could have easily decreased Madeline’s anxiety and anger. Even if Madeline was just seeing the community for the first time on move-in day, if the family had approached the move with positivity, Madeline no doubt would have felt better about it, too.

They could also have let Madeline believe it was her idea to move to the community. If they felt she would understand the situation, they could have taken her to a few communities to tour. Maybe Madeline could have helped them decide which community to choose. Like most of us, people with dementia feel good when they are empowered and think they have some control over their own lives.

Madeline could have helped her family move her into the community. She might have carried a couple of pillows inside while her family lugged the bigger items. Or, perhaps she could have stood in the room and directed where furniture should go. She would probably have felt as though she was choosing the move, or at least choosing the way the room would look. People want to feel necessary, and no one wants to feel as though decisions are being made for her.

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