1. Savor the moment
Someone can tell if you are in a rush. This is especially true for people with dementia, who pick up on body language and other nonverbal cues. So
stop and savor the moment.
Take time to engage in conversation. When you ask a question, give your dad time to answer, even if it takes longer than you feel it should. Speak in short sentences. And ask one question at a time.
Spend an afternoon getting to know what brings a smile to your dad’s face and revel in those small moments of joy.
2. Sometimes you don’t need words
Some of us feel the need to talk too much, to fill those seemingly awkward gaps of silence with a slew of unnecessary words. Sometimes, the best moments that you can share don’t involve words.
Take note of how your dad reacts to looking at photographs, watching birds, listening to music, going for a drive, or taking a quiet walk outside.
The effortlessness of not having to find the right words to fill the moment could be his ultimate version of joy.
3. The power of touch
While your dad may not have been the hugging type. physical comfort is an essential component to peace of mind.
Alzheimer’s disease can be isolating, and a warm embrace or simply holding his hand can assure your dad that you really care.
