A Shared Experience: Ruth & Bob

Tending to the moment ... a positive visual approach to address the moment to moment day in the life of Ruth and Bob.

Ruth and Bob live in their home of fifty five years. They attend a swim class every Friday, a routine now for the past decade. Ruth was diagnosed with Alzheimer's a few months ago. Bob and daughter Carol are Ruth's care givers. Ruth's behavioral challenge is generalized confusion and often not recognizing Bob. Bob spends a few hours every Friday trying to coax Ruth to get ready and go to class -- and convince her that he is indeed her husband. SparkingJoy.org met with Bob, Ruth and daughter Carol. Together we strategized to find a solution to help Ruth overcome her fear and confusion -- and to assist Bob in tending to the moment. We looked through photos and found one that served to meet the challenge. A photo that when Ruth views it - evokes a positive emotion, eases her fear and sees that Bob is someone she can trust. This oversize custom canvas with strategic text is on the wall in their kitchen. Ruth is redirected to it as needed...as it evokes a positive emotion and reassures her. In moments of fear and confusion Bob takes Ruth by the hand to the canvas. This simple positive visual approach was a team effort. The oversized canvas is a useful alternative to medications and force.

#memoryloss #alzheimers #caregiver #visual #communication #positiveapproach