Book: Emotional Well-Being for the Person with Dementia

From the beginning of our life, through to the end of life, humans respond to tactile stimulation, though touch can bring different meanings to different people. Non-medical researcher Guerrero (2017) reports that touch is the best way to comfort. In nonverbal and emotional communication, touch is particularly noteworthy; "We feel more connected to someone if they touch us."

In palliative care, comfort measures assume greater significance. Touch is a powerful way of facilitating communication. It can enhance psychological and physical comfort. It denotes presence. It denotes human connectedness (Sims 1988)

As care needs progress, somebody with dementia may only experience touch in the context of being washed or changed, or undergoing medical interventions. The simple act of physical contact—holding hands, a touch, or a gentle massage—can make a person feel connected to those he or she loves. It can be very soothing.

In considering the person (person centred care) we must remember that some of us aren’t comfortable with touch.