Alzheimer's patients forget facts easily (no kidding). Trying to correct them with factual information is not necessary. In fact, it might agitate them and very likely anger them. Instead, divert their attention and talk about something related but not based on facts - perhaps even about the emotion if possible.
Example:
Patient: "Where's my mom? She was here just a minute ago."
Fact: Her mom has been deceased for over 15 years.
Caregiver's response: "Oh, you must miss grandma. Tell me about her. Tell me the happiest times you shared with her."
Do NOT say: "What do you mean? Your mom has been dead for over 15 years, remember?"
Even though this may be the reality, reminding the Alzheimer's patient that her mom/parent is dead causes all kinds of guilt, grief, and pain for the patient. The patient feels bad that they forgot, and now that they are reminded of their loved one's death, a sense of loss overcomes the patient.
Example:
Patient: "Where's my mom? She was here just a minute ago."
Fact: Her mom has been deceased for over 15 years.
Caregiver's response: "Oh, you must miss grandma. Tell me about her. Tell me the happiest times you shared with her."
Do NOT say: "What do you mean? Your mom has been dead for over 15 years, remember?"
Even though this may be the reality, reminding the Alzheimer's patient that her mom/parent is dead causes all kinds of guilt, grief, and pain for the patient. The patient feels bad that they forgot, and now that they are reminded of their loved one's death, a sense of loss overcomes the patient.
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