Welcome! I agree with you. One of my residents lost her husband recently, but she’s far too deep into dementia to be able to understand or come to terms with that information. Telling her or taking her to the funeral would have been confusing (and, probably, just cruel). While all people with dementia are different, and while I’m sure the family wants to “tell her the truth,” it’s just going to cause her grief. She’ll soon forget the information, but she’ll still be upset. I wouldn’t tell her and I also wouldn’t bring her to the funeral.
Quick question about taking dementia patients to funerals, especially when behavior is erratic. Trying to convince the family that it is in her best interest not to be told, let her think the person is still alive but unable to visit. What are you thoughts? I am a new reader. Thank you.

Sponsored by Memorable Pets
Use code RWONDER for free shipping (up to $50 of shipping costs) on your next order! Click the Memorable Pets logo here to start saving.
Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin
Share on pinterest
Share on email

Rachael Wonderlin has a Master’s in Gerontology and is the author of two published books with Johns Hopkins University Press. She owns Dementia By Day, a dementia care consulting company.

Get the FREE “16 Things” poster!
16 Things I Would Want If I Got Dementia
Get the FREE “16 Things” poster for your personal use—or better yet—your dementia care community’s staff break room!
I wrote this poem years ago, but to date, it’s the most popular piece I’ve ever created.

Care Partner Class + Coaching
$300.00Creative Engagement
$20.00Live Webinar with Q&A!
$550.00