It was my husband’s birthday recently. When my young daughter heard me making arrangements for her care, so the adults could go to dinner, she said, “but Mom I am the frosting girl”. Read: I have a plan for celebrating too and an important role, baking and frosting a cake.
From a very young age, human beings thrive on having a recognized role and purpose which provides meaning to life. This need does not change over time because of aging or a dementing illness. In a recent post to the New York Times New Old Age blog, Dr. Cynthia Green described ways to continue to visit with family members with dementia. She recognizes that finding meaningful ways to engage involves knowing what has brought the individual a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and meaning.
Through careful thought and planning, visiting with family members with memory loss can be meaningful for everyone involved. At our communities, those owned and managed by Senior Living Residences, Memory Support Program Directors are always available to assist with ideas for visiting. And family members are always welcome to join in planned programs, events and trips.
