Vitalia North Olmsted Memory Care Discusses Creating Engagement with Someone Living with Dementia

In a world that thrives on communication, connection, and shared experiences, dementia poses unique challenges. It affects not only an individual’s memory, but also their very essence. As the number of individuals living with dementia continues to rise, it becomes increasingly important to explore ways to foster meaningful engagement.

Dementia can be an isolating and disorienting condition, creating a feeling of disconnect from the world they once knew and loved. However, beneath the surface of cognitive decline lies the enduring essence of the individual waiting to be nurtured and cherished. By embracing empathy, patience, and creativity we can create experiences that transcend memory loss and provide a lifeline to the person within.

Join us at Vitalia North Olmsted on a journey to unlock the potential for engagement and connection with your loved one living with dementia. Together, we will discover the power of human connection that transcends the boundaries of memory, and in doing so, enrich the lives of those touched by this challenging condition.

Past hobbies and interests are important to know about someone. Our residents still take so much joy with engaging in their past interests, even if it doesn’t look the same as it used to. In our Memory Care Neighborhood we are always looking for new ways to meet our residents where they are in their journey.

Interests and hobbies can be modified to reflect their current abilities. Using person-centered care, we engage with our residents where they are in their abilities. If we are working in the courtyard, some may engage in pulling weeds, how they did at home, while others may help with planting flowers into our raised flower beds. Even if the individual struggles with physically engaging, just having them with you and talking them through what you are doing can be enough.

Engagement benefits someone living with dementia by helping with their cognitive and physical abilities. It helps deter expressions of emotional distress, and it can also be a great way to still help them feel like they are needed!

When it comes to engaging someone living with dementia, patience, empathy, and creativity are the keys to fostering meaningful connections. By embracing a person-centered approach, we can unlock a world of possibilities, enabling individuals with dementia to continue experiencing joy, connection, and a sense of purpose. Remember, it’s not about fixing what’s broken, but rather cherishing the unique qualities that make each person special. Together we can create moments of engagement where those living with dementia are valued and cherished for who they are, not just who they were.