Creating Rich Sensory and Social Experiences for Those Experiencing Dementia
Part 13: The Final Sense—Smell
Thank you for joining us on this journey as we explored ways to bring rich sensory and social experiences to our loved ones experiencing dementia. Today, we close out our series with the sense of smell.
Smell is a powerful sense that can evoke memories and emotions. Take your loved one to a candle shop and explore the various scents together. However, remember that some individuals with dementia may have lost their sense of smell. For those who have, focus on other sensory experiences.
For example, visit a fabric store with a loved one who has enjoyed sewing and crafts. Walk through the fabric aisles, feeling the different textures and taking in the vibrant colors and patterns.
Throughout this series, we’ve emphasized empathy, kindness, and compassion. The DAWN Method teaches us to understand dementia from the perspective of the person experiencing it.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. We’d love to hear if you’ve tried any of these ideas with your loved ones!
