How to show  compassion?

It is important that you show compassion, even if a person living with dementia is repeating the same questions over and over again or understanding each other becomes increasingly difficult.

 You need to remember that dementia is a disease that  can make communication difficult. For example, a person living with dementia may have forgotten what they just said. You need to use extra effort and be patient with the person you care for.

Let's look at an example

Wissam often visits his sister, Eman, who lives with dementia. Eman’s husband passed away six months ago. When Wissam is visiting, Eman often asks where her husband is. Wissam finds this difficult. He knows Eman is missing her husband and may have forgotten that he died. Wissam tries to distract her by asking questions about other things, such as: ”How was your day?” Eman persists in asking where her husband is.
7. Check your understanding
How to show compassion (1).

Did Wissam respond well?

  1. Statements
Today Wissam tries a different approach

Wissam says to Eman: “It must be difficult for you that he died”. He gives Eman a hug. Wissam shows Eman some pictures of her husband that he brought from home and talks to her about her husband.

Wissam showed that he understands that Eman is missing her husband and tries to support her.

8. Check your understanding
How to show compassion (2).

Did Wissam respond well?

  1. Statements