Dementia,including Alzheimer disease, affects about one in 13 seniors,many of them veterans. As you remember our war heroes on Memorial Day,think about what you can do for them.They did so much for us.
Veterans who suffer from various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer disease, often have very specific care needs. It is important that these veterans are cared for by people who understand their condition and have the appropriate instruction and skills.
Therefore encourage family members of veterans to gain the training they need to care for their loved one with dementia.
For those in nursing homes and other institutions, make sure veterans with dementia are visited often.
All people, including those with memory loss, need human contact. They need to be hugged. They need to hear your voice. They may not know you but as long as you know who they are, that's all that matters.
Talk to them about their service to our country. Often they will share stories with you because their time in the service made a huge impression on them
Tell them how proud you are of them. Thank them for their service. This is sure to make them feel good. Most likely, it will make them smile
Smile with a veteran. Laughter is wonderful medicine...
Sing patriotic songs with a veteran with dementia. Often they will be able o sing many familiar songs
- Make a visitor's packet for them.
- For more ideas on things you can do with a veteran or anyone with dementia on this Memorial Day or any day, read the book, Adorable Photographs of Our Baby-Meaningful, Mind-Stimulating Activities and More for the Memory Challenged,
- Their Loved Ones, and Involved Professionals
- So please remember all our veterans on Memorial Day including those with dementia
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