What’s on Your Agenda?
Recently, a friend and her family visited a wildlife park near my home and attended a presentation on manatees. The guide was very enthusiastic and stood in front of the bleachers overlooking the park’s observatory. My friend’s young niece was very attentive, taking in every word.
At the end of the presentation, the guide invited questions. The little girl quickly raised her hand, waving it eagerly as her parents beamed with pride at their daughter’s inquisitive nature. She waited patiently, and when she was finally called on, she pointed her two small feet toward the guide, wiggled her tiny, stubby toes, and asked her own profound question: “Do you like my new sandals?”
When we focus on our own agenda and are busy thinking about our next comment rather than truly “listening,” we miss the emotions behind what is being said—especially when speaking with someone living with dementia. The LOVE Approach to Living with Dementia teaches us that when we Listen, Observe, Validate, and Engage with someone experiencing memory loss, we gain a greater awareness of how we communicate. As a result, relationships become more meaningful, and connections grow stronger.
If you would like more information on our Memory Ministry, Memory Cafe, or the support training we offer for families and friends, please contact Vicky Pitner at vpitner@firstumc.org.