Your spouse, mother, father, sibling, or best friend has dementia. However, they must eat just like you. You want to
do something special and take them out, but you hesitate because they have dementia. But what does that have to do with eating? The homecare agencies will advise you that it is possible taking your loved one out of their environment may cause erratic behavior that neither you or anyone may predict. On the other hand, they may enjoy themselves immensely, and it will be the best elixir for them and you.
The first recommendation of homecare agencies are that before inviting your parent for dinner, select your Dayton area location wisely. Choose the restaurant and consider food options and the atmosphere. You may also want to pick a time for your meal when the restaurant will be a little less crowded making it more enjoyable and less hec tic for your loved one.
Another suggestion is that just like the Boy Scout’s motto says, “be prepared.” The experts that have been working with dementia at the homecare agencies suggest you must stay calm and be prepared for any glitches in the plan or system. Have a plan for your plan, and a backup plan for that. Be prepared to order for your mother or dad, don’t overwhelm them and too many questions may cause a meltdown. Play music from your smart phone for your particular person. Studies indicate that music they are familiar with will help soothe them and may bring them into the conversation. Do not ignore them, and instead continue to draw them out and into the conversation.
The homecare agencies suggest keeping these in mind when going out with your parent or loved one to make the dining or the event a success:
- Identify restrooms and be prepared to assist.
- When choosing a seat in a restaurant sit at a table rather than a booth, it is easier to accommodate.
- Be prepared to pay with cash to leave quickly to avoid confusion or any upsets for your parent or loved one.
- Remember this is just life and keep smiling.
