If we have learned anything throughout the past year, it is the importance of friendships and staying in touch.
This is certainly no different from someone diagnosed with memory loss.
Remaining connected with a dear friend diagnosed with dementia is important. With so many challenges brought about by this disease the acceptance and support of friends remains deeply meaningful. It provides a sense of belonging, continuity, acceptance and connection that every human needs.
“Friends have a wealth of love and memories to share. Even more importantly, they often possess a generous ability to connect with and appreciate the person as they are now,” says Marty Finley, M. Ed., Lead Memory Care Navigator for Sun Health. “And, that is immensely reassuring when so many others tend to focus on who that person with dementia used to be.”
Opportunities to support may be as simple as a bedside visit, a game of cards or going for a walk. Supportive listening, human contact and a warm shoulder to lean on will never go out of style, no matter what life may bring. It’s not about what you do in the time spent, it’s about the simple pleasure of being together.
They may not remember your name, but they are likely to remember they like you.
Sun Health’s Memory Care Navigator program can help those with memory loss and their family members and friends to identify support, services and resources that may be helpful in navigating the dementia journey. The service is provided at no charge to clients through the generosity of Sun Health Foundation donors. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call (623) 471-9300, or visit SunHealthWellness.org/memorycare.
