Page 32 - Prescription for Life YOD v3
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They may still be working, responsible for a mortgage,
have dependent children still living at home and
possibly supporting dependent parents too. Their lives
are likely to be active, with plans and hopes for
tomorrow and beyond their retirement. This may
involve a change or modification of roles within
families and an acknowledgement to accept support
where once there was independence.
In order to remain connected in the face of these huge
changes, people living with dementia require their
support networks to assist them with this task.
An emphasis on connectedness and the value of
relationships can assist to soften the impact of these
changes. In a supported care environment, knowing
the personal history of the person with dementia and
consistency of staffing to support this relationship can
be very valuable in reinforcing connectedness, as can
the ability to personalise living spaces with photos,
linen, furnishings to promote a link between the past
and present.
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