Alzheimer’s is a difficult disease to deal with, as it ultimately leads to difficulties in cognitive functioning and memory decline, making it challenging to engage in conversations with people who are struggling with this condition. When talking with a person struggling with Alzheimer’s, many people ask themselves: is it better to talk about current events or the past with an Alzheimer’s patient?
The importance of Centennial memory care for people dealing with Alzheimer’s can foster more meaningful and positive conversations that ultimately lead to deeper understanding and connections.
First Things First: How Alzheimer’s Disease Impacts Communication Skills
Alzheimer’s disease is a condition that can impact communication skills, cognitive ability, and ability to retain information. While patients in the early stages of Alzheimer’s may be capable of discussing recent events, those suffering from a later progression of the disease may have difficulties discussing more current topics. Regardless of the stage of Alzheimer’s, receiving Centennial memory care can be highly beneficial to improving a person’s state of mind.
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, long-term memories commonly stay intact, while short-term memory capability significantly declines. Therefore, for those with a more advanced or intermediate progression of Alzheimer’s, talking about familiar conversations based on the past can be an open door for connection.
Why Talking About the Past Is Important
Speaking about past events can be both cognitively stimulating for Alzheimer’s patients, in addition to comforting, therefore having a positive impact on their well-being. Memories that are long term, such as those that pertain to young adulthood or childhood, commonly stay present in the memory of an Alzheimer’s patient, even as other capabilities deteriorate.
Furthermore, even events that may not have happened that long ago, such as significant milestones like birth, may be accessible for Alzheimer’s patients. Focusing on discussing these types of topics can bring joy and familiarity, in addition to strengthening bonds between caregivers and family members.
Memory recall can also stimulate cognitive ability and reinforce a sense of self, which can have positive impacts on a person’s overall mental and physical wellness. By using props such as photos, objects, and old letters, interesting memories, and funny stories may arise, leading to rich conversations.
Tips for Conversations With an Alzheimer’s Patient
Ultimately, it’s crucial to remember that an Alzheimer’s patient is a person just like anyone else who happens to be struggling with a serious health condition. Approach the conversation as you normally would with a person, focusing on their specific preferences and abilities to engage. Start with simple probes such as a memory-related question or current events to gauge the topics they can talk about.
If the person seems excited to talk about something, ask them further questions about the topic and follow their lead. You can also use gentle probes, such as auditory or visual cues, to walk them through the conversation. Avoid talking about any complicated current events or negative news that could cause unnecessary frustration or devastation. Keep it simple, positive, and generally rooted in the past.
An experienced assisted living staff member can help you better understand why a proactive and thoughtful approach to conversations with an Alzheimer’s patient is important.
FAQs:
Q: Why Is It Important to Consider What to Talk About With an Alzheimer’s Patient?
A: It is important to consider what you should talk about with an Alzheimer’s patient because they can experience serious changes in cognitive functioning and memory capacity, which can make certain topics of discussion distressing or disorienting. By carefully choosing the topics of conversation, you can strive towards more positive, engaging interactions, avoiding unnecessary distress or anxiety.
Q: Is It Better to Talk About Current Events or the Past With an Alzheimer’s Patient?
A: It is typically preferable to talk about past events instead of current events with Alzheimer’s patients because they tend to retain long term memories compared to short term ones. By going over comforting and familiar topics with Alzheimer’s patients, you can help stimulate meaningful conversations and forge deeper connections, while avoiding unnecessary anxiety or stress.
Q: Why Might Current Events Be Challenging for Alzheimer’s Patients?
A: Discussing current events for Alzheimer’s patients can be challenging, as the disease tends to cause cognitive ability and short-term memory storage to deteriorate. This can make it challenging to retain any information pertaining to current events or follow along with related conversations. Therefore, sometimes talking about more current events can lead to anxiety, confusion or even frustration.
Q: When Can Talking About Current Events Be Beneficial for Alzheimer’s Patients?
A: If a person living with Alzheimer’s seems to be particularly interested in a current topic or has retained information about an event, it can be engaging to briefly discuss the topic with them. If you do choose to talk about a current event, be sure to keep the conversation relatable and simple. Avoid talking about any negative or complicated news that could lead to frustration and more stress.
Q: What Types of Past Topics Are Suitable for Conversations With Alzheimer’s Patients?
A: When it comes to engaging with those living with Alzheimer’s, the types of past topics that may be optimal for a conversation are highly dependent on the person, including their interests in history. By focusing on happy memories, like funny childhood anecdotes or the traditions of the family, in addition to important milestones like births or weddings, you can avoid bad feelings and forge stronger relationships.
Ensure Compassionate and Diligent Care for Your Loved One
Whether your loved one has been fighting the battle with Alzheimer’s for a long time or has just recently been diagnosed, you’re likely wondering how you can help them be the healthiest version of themself. At Rocky Mountain Assisted Living, we provide crucial support for those living with Alzheimer’s, providing them with personalized and compassionate care plans that help ensure safety and manage the disease.
We want to help your loved one grow and develop despite any cognitive battle they may be facing. Contact our team today to learn more about how we can help you provide the care your loved one deserves.