Should people with Alzheimer's be holding hands and courting each other in the nursing home? When a spouse dies, we can more easily reconcile it for ourselves. But what if the spouse is alive and well while the other has dementia and is in a residential care facility? It isn't like they're being intentionally unfaithful. What, if anything, should the staff do about it? What can the staff do when the courting goes "too far," becoming socially "inappropriate," as it very well may. People with Alzheimer's and other dementias are often confused. It is no different when it comes to their romantic feelings. Can we lovingly distract them with something else as we would a young child?
So far, in Inter-Active Music, it hasn't gone beyond hand-holding and looks of adoration. Thankfully, the music and activities keep the minds and the bodies busy. And often, the emotions seem busy too, as we sing and listen to songs from their past. Today, for instance, I learned all about one gentleman's time in California--surfing! With his mind on the waves, the beauty, and yes--even the taste of the sand--there was no time for this guy to romance the ladies around him today!
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