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How to Communicate with People Who Have Dementia Part 5

Ask yourself, “What difference does it make?”

 The simple question, “What difference does it make?” may simplify the complex question of “How cognitively intact must a person be to make this decision?” For instance, it matters very little if a person’s clothing matches (the person with dementia can choose what to wear); or what a person with dementia eats isn’t appealing to you. Unless there is a health reason (allergies) or safety reason (poisonous), the person with dementia should be able to select any combination of food he or she wants to eat.

 But some health choices such as surgery are highly complex and critical to the future well-being of the individual. This decision makes a big difference and should not be left to the cognitively impaired individual.

www.blessingsforseniors.com

Jack Coito

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