He got along with everyone but at the end of his life, they weren’t there.
None of his other relatives — nephews, nieces, cousins — ever went to visit him. If they did, they never mentioned it to me, nor did any of the staff in my father’s dementia ward, leaving me 99% certain that no one else came.
None of those alternatives are comforting, and I’m finding it hard to think of most of my relatives the way I used to. Efforts to be supportive can be dampened by not knowing how to engage with someone as Alzheimer’s progresses, which can lead some individuals to distance themselves completely. This only adds to the sadness and isolation families may experience.
Invite them to stay connected with your family member. Offer to answer their questions and even provide suggestions on how they might be supportive. If they want to visit, let them know in advance what they may expect, and offer suggestions on how they can communicate with the person and what activities might offer an opportunity to connect.
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