Issue 39.16
Close your eyes and imagine a world where the neighbor’s lawnmower sounds so loud you can’t concentrate; a world where the tingling in your hands and feet makes it impossible to grasp a spoon or stand in a grocery line. Imagine knowing what you want to say, but not being able to get the words to come out of your mouth.
This is what life is like for many of our seniors. How can we help them communicate and live a more fulfilling life? Sometimes the answer is being patient. Let them take their time telling their story. Try not to fill in words or phrases in their sentences. Listen for the feelings behind their words. Don’t exclude them from conversations with family and friends. Ask them directly how they are doing.
It’s so important to make sure our loved ones feel included in the family circle. Feel free to laugh and tell a joke or funny story. Humor helps lighten the mood and often makes communication easier.
How can we better understand what it feels like to have dementia or neuropathy? A virtual dementia tour allows those of us who are able bodied to experience the sounds, sights and pains of aging. The Meadows Senior Living Community is pleased to offer virtual dementia tours on October 11th and October 25th at 1 pm. The tours last about 45 minutes and will be available by reservation. Spots are limited, so please call 435-628-0090 to sign up for the session of your choice. The tours are free, although we will be accepting donations for the Meadows Team participating in the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk for a Cure on November 5th.
A virtual dementia tour will help you better relate to your loved ones. If your business caters to the elderly – The Meadows would be delighted to set up a virtual dementia tour for your employees. Being able to bring compassion to older folks – and a virtual understanding of what it feels like to age is the key to great communication and empathy.
Call 628-0090 today to sign up for your tour.