Connecting in movement- a walk together, whether side by side, or taking the one you care for in a wheelchair, allows a change of scenery which brings something new to experience together in the moment. If able to go for a drive, places where they may see young children playing is pleasant and fun to observe. Some options may be to go near a playground/schoolyard or stables where children learn to horseback ride. Ski-hills, skateboard parks, boardwalks, golf courses, dog parks - places where there is movement, and activity provides the eye with something stimulating and may evoke a memory.
“What’s new” is an often-used introduction to conversation at the beginning of a visit and quite often, absolutely nothing is new. And, if there is something new, impairment doesn’t always allow the memory to retrieve that information and express it. When we visit, it’s often easier to connect in action – doing something together.
When we meet a former colleague or old friend, and they say “remember the time... and we remember – we go off to that place in our mind. It’s not likely to happen in every visit, but let that be a goal - to tap into one of those pleasant experiences with the ones you love... what a tremendous connection!
No comments:
Post a Comment