How to educate someone to help with PWD

M5M · March 29

I have a neighbor who has expressed willingness to be a helper/friend to DH. He is retired, nearby, pleasant. Although he has a willing spirit, he has no experience with PWD. Surely there are some easy-to-read pamphlets, etc that will introduce a novice to the overall situation. I don't think my friend wants to know the whole dirty story at this point, so it doesn't need to be as specific as we get on here….suggestions?

Phoenix1966 · March 29

Have you thought about inviting him over for lunch with you and your DH?

M1 · March 29

Maybe give him the link to "understanding the dementia experience"? Pretty short read. I know the link is in the group for new members

M5M · March 29

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/203862#Comment_203862

That's what we are working toward, but DH is resistant to a "caregiver" arrangement, so I'm trying to create just some random encounters. We have the time to get it started, and need to arrange some more time for the two of them.

SSHarkey · March 30

I think the lunch idea is good. Of coming over to help you… That’s how I got my mother started with a caregiver. Under the pretext of “my friend is coming over to keep me company “. Worked great. Once your DH feels comfortable with him and enjoys the idea of another guy to talk to, he’ll buy in. Especially if the helper will do things your DH enjoys.

Jeannielou · March 30

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/68714/how-to-educate-someone-to-help-with-pwd

I would invite him over for visits and gradually he will catch on. Maybe after a few visits run to the store for about half an hour and gradually increase the time. I think it will be a great experience for both of them and you.

concerned_sister · March 30

There are short you tube videos. There's a set I really like with a woman acting out both roles of PWD and caregiver, with do's and don'ts. Here's one:

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/MPzFHUA5bwg

FTDCaregiver1 · March 30

Like the lunch idea and sharing info combo too, good way to gently immerse in your world.

M5M · March 30

Thanks for the good suggestions. The video is a new one I'd not seen. We have had one brief encounter and DH warmed to the new acquaintance. We'll see how things develop! I believe this man could be helpful to let me have at least an hour or so each week, and then make it easier to introduce an actual care aide as we need that.

jfkoc · March 30

Just never let on that the person coming in is there for your husband….

How to educate someone to help with PWD

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