Care That Works: A Relationship Approach to Persons with Dementia

In Doing Things , Jitka M. Zgola offered practical advice for those caring for persons with Alzheimer’s disease. Now this text offers to show how caregivers can better meet the demanding challenges of their job by building and improving their personal relationships with those in their care. Zgola explains that good dementia care involves three elements: a good relationship between the caregiver and the person who has dementia; a safe and nurturing environment; and stimulating activities. Zgola portrays the plight of people with dementia and suggests ways to act in a manner that accords them the respect and dignity they deserve. Topics that receive special attention include communicating with persons who have language deficits and coping with problem behaviours - two critical problems in dementia care.