Founder and Executive Director Linda Fodrini-Johnson, MA, MFT, CMC

Often those with dementia are excluded from social events because they become confused or anxious when they no longer can track conversations or follow directions for games such as Bridge.

I am often asked, “What can I do with my friend who has memory loss or dementia?”. A few simple ideas:Invite them to lunch but don’t confuse them with a menu just say, “let’s go get some spaghetti and meatballs” and you do the ordering. When you eliminate the overwhelming options you are more likely to get a “yes” to your invitation and reduce the anxiety that menus or choosing a restaurant present.When you get to the restaurant just say to the waiter, “We want the spaghetti and meat balls- no need for a menu.”

Another idea is to ask the person to take a walk with you and just stay present on the surroundings; focus on the flora and/or wildlife.No need to remember, you just need to feel the day.It is surprising how many people with dementia and/or memory loss can’t remember the outing but their family will report how relaxed they were when they had the experience of just enjoying the moment.This is a gift those with dementia give us – the moment.