As a caregiver in an assisted living faculity, I at times have a difficult time redirecting one special person named Ann. She moved in about 2 months ago and still to this day she doest not believe that she lives at the faculityl. She is constantly bring downstairs suitcases of her belongings and we have to tell her that she is not leaving that day that she will be going the next day. I know we have to tell little white lies at time to them, but this has been going on for so long now, I am beginning to think that she will never understand that she no long lives in her home that her husband, who is now deceased, built for her 50+ years ago. She has not other physical problems other than dementia. Does anyone have a suggestion.?? We have called her kids and all they say is "what do you want us to do about it?" they dont seem to care and that is sad. She is a lovely lady but doesnt comprehend that she now lives in a new resident. All my co workers are at wits ends also as what to do. thanks for any suggestions. Kris
Working with Alzheimers
-
Missy responded 3 months ago :
Hi Kris,
Thanks so much for joining us in Caring.com's groups!
I wonder if there is anything you can do in her room that would convince her it's home. Does she have children? Is it possible they have a possession of hers that would trigger a "homey" memory?
I'm hoping others will be able to give you some additional tips to try!
-
Rendezvous 747 responded 3 months ago :
Hi Kris,
I have the same thing going on with my Mother. Her desire to be back home has given me many sleepless nights. I try to divert her attention to something else. If this doesnt work I take her outside and bring her back in after a few minutes and she is fine. The trick is to keep her busy, which is not an easy thing to do. Over time I'm told this will ease up. A person with dementia will get very aggressive if the answer she gets does not compute . A lot of love is needed then and reassurance.
