The person with dementia has experiences, enjoys particular activities. These have shaped the persons life and are now a part of how he or she thinks and feels. Getting to know the person is a most important aspect of caring for and supporting the person with Alzheimers Disease.

What is important and enjoyable in their lives?

• Playing cards
• Listening to music
• Travelling
• Walking
• Gardening

Who have been the important family members and friends?

• Partners/Family
• Grandchildren
• Neighbours
• Friends from Football Club / ICA / Other

Encourage the person to do the things they have always enjoyed and can still cope with. Music is important, old songs are not forgotten and bring back lovely memories.

Life Story Keep a diary and record daily events such as who visited etc,. Include photographs from past and present. Read the diary to the person to make them feel loved. Include important parts of their lives – who they married, children’s names – what they worked at and their achievements – where they lived etc.

By asking them the questions you may discover many things you probably never knew about your loved one.