Breaking the Ice with Dementia

I have several patients that most staff and visitors are scared to approach.  This is mainly due to their disability or behavior.

However, I’ve determined to get to know these residents and spend time with them.

So what have I learned? What are some ways to break the ice with dementia patients?

• This takes time
• Slowly, but surely we both warm to one another
• Touch shows I care
• Music is a great way to break the ice
• Even short visits show I care
• I need to genuinely care
• Speak with the family to learn about this person and their life
• Find one thing we can bond over {each person is different but there is something}
• This takes time
• I can’t rush the process
• Don’t give up

How have you broken the ice?