June Newsletter

Brilliance

Dementia Support & Consulting

When a flower doesn't bloom you change the environment in which it grows not the flower

June

Newsletter

In every season, connection is the root, even when words are lost, hearts still remember how to love.

How to maintain meaningful connections as memory loss progresses.

Be Present in the Moment

People with dementia may not remember the past or be able to plan the future, but they can still feel emotions right now. Focus on the shared moment, not on testing memory or correcting facts.

• Tip: Use calm body language and maintain eye contact.

• Why it matters: Emotions linger longer than memories, your warmth and kindness stay with them even if your name is forgotten.

Use Simple, Clear Communication

Avoid complex questions or abstract ideas.

• Speak slowly and clearly, using short sentences.

• Ask yes/no or either/or questions rather than open-ended ones.

• Give time for them to respond without rushing.

Connect Through Senses

People living with dementia often respond well to sensory experiences, touch, music, visuals, and smell.

• Play familiar music from their past.

• Hold hands gently if appropriate.

• Look at photo albums or familiar objects.

Validate Feelings, Not Just Facts

Even if what they say is incorrect or confused, the emotions behind their words are real.

• Instead of correcting, validate.

• E.g., If they ask about a deceased relative, you might say, “You miss her, don’t you?” rather than, “She died years ago.”

Use Reminiscence Gently

Talking about the past can bring comfort—but it’s not a quiz.

• Ask about general topics like their favorite holiday or childhood food.

• Accept stories as they come, even if they’re mixed up.

Engage in Shared Activities

Doing something together, gardening, folding towels, singing, or painting, can create moments of connection without relying on words.

Adjust Expectations

Don’t expect deep conversations or full recognition every time. The value lies in being there, consistently and kindly.

Communication Techniques

• Use short, simple sentences

• Speak slowly, calmly, and clearly

• Point to objects, use pictures, gesture often

• Avoid correcting or arguing

• Focus on emotion, not exact words

• Smile, use eye contact, and offer comfort

• Use yes/no questions instead of open-ended ones

• Stay calm and gentle

• Use soft body language and phrases like, "It's okay, I'm here with you."

• Avoid correcting them or pressing for answers

• Use positive words, avoid "don't, can't, NO!"

• Avoid words like, "remember?"

• Be responsible for your energy that you bring to the room

• Know your loved one; extroverts need connection, introverts need control

• Approach with curiosity

• Step into their realty

• Provide answers that you think might be reassuring then see how they react

• In these moments, your support matters more than the words

Give yourself kindness and grace

You’re not only missing conversations with your loved one. You’re grieving the person you used to talk with, laugh with, and feel known by.

You may feel:

• Frustrated or overwhelmed

• Sad or angry

• Helpless when you can’t “fix” what’s happening

And yet, here you are, still showing up.

That’s love in action.

Strengthening Bonds Through Communication

Let's start with introductions-

1. Use hand gestures, wave, handshake, give your name if necessary

2. Give a compliment-"I love the color you're wearing." or "Your haircut turned out great."

3. Share something in common- find a me-too topic. "I'm from Wisconsin too!"

4. Make a positive observation "those are beautiful flowers"

5. Inquire more about the person

Contact me

Some Products that I like

Communication Board- These durable, easy-to-clean communication boards offer a practical way for individuals living with dementia to express their needs, feelings, and preferences especially as verbal skills decline. With clear images and simple words, they help reduce frustration, improve daily interactions, and foster meaningful connections between loved ones and caregivers.

Animatronic Pets-Stuffed therapy pets offer soothing companionship for individuals living with dementia. Designed to mimic the look and feel of real animals, these pets can help reduce anxiety, ease loneliness, and spark emotional engagement without the responsibilities of pet care. Their gentle movements and responses provide comfort, routine, and a calming presence in everyday life.

Photo Blanket-This personalized photo blanket isn’t just cozy, it’s comforting in a deeply meaningful way. For individuals living with dementia, seeing familiar faces and cherished memories can spark recognition, reduce anxiety, and create a sense of connection. Whether it’s snuggling up with family photos or using the blanket as a visual reminder of loved ones, this custom keepsake can bring warmth and emotional support to both the person and their caregivers.

"In dementia care, your smile is more important than your words."— Teepa Snow“

What's Happening!

Care Partner

SUPPORT GROUP

Every second Friday of the month at 1:00pm. 

Join us on July 11th!

You’re Not Alone.

A place to breathe, connect and be understood.

Caring for a loved one is a profound act of love — but it can also be overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. We’re here to walk this journey with you.

Are you caring for a loved one living with memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer’s? Or supporting someone with a chronic illness or daily needs? No matter your situation, you are not alone.

Join a warm, understanding community of fellow caregivers where you can share your story, exchange resources, and simply breathe. This is a safe, judgment-free space to connect, find encouragement, and care for yourself, too.

Address:

Resilience Physical therapy Clinic

305 SW C Ave, Suite #4

Corvallis, OR 97333

Please RSVP to help with setting up the space. brilliancedementiaconsulting@gmail.com

I hope you've enjoyed the April newsletter but if you didn't and would like to be taken off of my email list please reply and let me know   This is NOT a replacement for healthcare.  This is not considered healthcare advice.  Please consult your loved one's healthcare providers for best practices and recommendations for your situation. 

Contact Me

www.brilliancedementia.com

541-214-3213 brillliancedementiaconsulting@gmail.com