I coach and train a lot of families in how to care for their loved ones experiencing dementia using the DAWN Method. I always include the DAWN message that dementia is the season when expressing respect, admiration, and love are ways we give our loved ones a sense of well-being.
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.
I am grateful for the privilege of watching my dad get ready. It hurts my heart, but I know that when his time comes, he will be ready to be done with this life.
So this has surprised me: the fear and sadness that already grip my heart in waves as some part of me anticipates the day he draws his last breath.
It is a misunderstanding that we necessarily lose our loved ones to dementia before they die. We can keep a close, soul-to-soul relationship with our companions by memorizing their stories and being ready to share them back with them when they become unable to. Those stories often will include us as family and friends.
I was inspired to learn the DAWN Method because my heart suffered as I watched my dad’s mom, my beloved grandmother, go through her life-depleting journey to end-of-life without dementia specialist care.
Creating Rich Sensory and Social Experiences for Those Experiencing Dementia - Part 8: Noticing As we continue to explore options for creating sensory and social experiences for our loved ones experiencing dementia, let's get back to the art of noticing. If your loved one was a pilot or farmer, they probably have spent most of their lives noticing the clouds.…
Creating the right activities for your loved one with dementia involves understanding their social preferences and incorporating sensory elements to enhance their experience. By doing so, you can help them lead a more fulfilling and engaging life.
Caregiving can be challenging. I know this both professionally and personally.
Society may paint another picture, but spending time with people experiencing dementia is sacred work I get to do. The DAWN Method has taught me how to provide the right type of care in the right amounts.
