Having a loved one with dementia can be a significant adjustment for your entire family. While the nature of your time together may change, there is no reason it can't be just as  meaningful as it was prior to their diagnosis.

Upon receiving diagnosis, we recommend that you talk with your loved one's memory care team. They can help you identify the best times of the day to visit, activities you can enjoy together, and other ways to make the most of your visits. In the interim, here are some tips based on The Goodman Group’s Montessori Inspired Lifestyle® approach to care when visiting your loved one.

MONTESSORI INSPIRED LIFESTYLE®

First, let’s identify what the Montessori Inspired Lifestyle® is. Most memory care neighborhoods managed by The Goodman Group have implemented this approach to care for a few reasons. Ultimately, Montessori Inspired Lifestyle® allows residents to focus on their individual strengths and engage in meaningful activities

Routines are important–especially for people with dementia–however, they do not override the need for basic human choice.

“All of our team members are trained to offer choice, to give our residents the time they need to still be independent and decide things on their own” shares Tina V., Regional Director of Life Enrichment at The Goodman Group.

“We offer choice in everything from what residents wear to when they want to shower, when they want to brush their teeth, when they want to eat their meals, what they want to eat for their meals and what activities they want to do.”

Montessori Inspired Lifestyle® is all about meeting residents where they're at while focusing on what they are able to do independently,  instead of what they're not able to do. This approach drives how residents, team members, and visitors interact with one another, and subsequently, is directly connected to our tips for visiting your loved one with dementia. 

TIMING MATTERS

Visit at a time of day that works best for your loved one,  you do not want your visit to be disruptive to the flow their day. That may be during meals — which you can share with them — after a nap, or another time of day when they feel best. Later in the day, an effect of dementia known as sundowning can make them feel more tired and confused. The care team can advise you on the best times for your loved one. 

At the beginning of each visit, say hello and use your loved one’s name or relationship to you: “Hi Jean,” or “Hi dad.” If they seem uncertain, add your name: “Hi mom, it’s Bob.” If your loved one doesn’t seem to recognize you, don’t take it personally. This is an effect that dementia can have and it may or may not be recurring. Keep in mind that what’s most important is that you’re able to be together. Your loved one will feel your love and care, regardless of whether or not they remember your name. 

Flexibility is Important

If you’re visiting regularly — even every day — your loved one may not always feel or act the same as they did on your last visit. Accept that they are where they need to be in the moment and try to adjust to sharing that moment with them. 

We suggest avoiding correcting your loved one’s memory or comments, even if they’re not accurate. It’s also a good idea not to insist on anything like a day of the week, someone’s name, or someone’s relationship to your loved one. People living with dementia can be very sensitive to being perceived as “wrong.” Being with your loved one is far more important than minor details.

Stay as long as both you and your loved one are comfortable. One day that may be an hour or more; on another, 10 or 15 minutes may be enough. There is no set time frame for a visit, and every visit can be different. 

However long you stay, make sure they are the  focus of your visit. Unless you are sharing an activity like a meal or other event, it can be confusing to your loved one if you’re distracted by answering your cell phone, for example. It’s best to stay in the moment and be present with each visit.

Traversing this new life chapter can be challenging, but so long as you remember to be patient, considerate of your loved ones wishes, and above all present with them, you are on your way to having a very successful visit indeed.