Here are some tips to help your loved one maintain their friendships and stay social:
1. Advocate. Your friends may not understand dementia and may accidentally act patronizing. Remind them of your loved one’s abilities and needs.
2. Plan Ahead. Let your friends know what changes to expect as the disease progresses. Warn them, for example, of potential emotional outbursts, or the need to repeat themselves.
3. Quiet Environment. Meet in a calm and quiet space. This will help your loved one focus on your friends.
4. Choose activities. Pick a shared activity suited to your loved one’s abilities—looking at old photo albums, taking a walk, listening old records.
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