Once an older loved one starts losing their memory, it can take an emotional toll on their family. Family members may find themselves confronted not only with the difficulty of losing integral memories, but also with important tasks – such as a will, power of attorney and more – that must be addressed. As family members wonder what’s next, they may also find they don’t have formal directives regarding their loved one’s final wishes. Tackling these important issues is a major part of breaking down the stigma associated with dementia.
That’s why we enjoyed reading this article from U.S. News & World Report, 5 Steps to Ending the Stigma Surrounding Dementia. In it, the author urges readers to commit treatment plans and end-of-life directives to paper, much like family members would upon learning a loved one has a terminal disease such as cancer. As important, the author reiterates how important it is to capture a loved one’s life story and special memories – anecdotes that can be shared as a bonding experience as the loved one ages, and to fondly remember them after they’ve gone.
In fact, recalling fond memories is an integral part of life at The Kenwood for our Memory Care residents. Each resident’s apartment is identified by shadow boxes that display keepsakes, mementos and photos from throughout each resident’s life. And functional Destination Stations allow residents to engage in familiar activities as they regress.