2. Support within families

2.3. Family Meetings - some helpful points

Open and honest communication is beneficial for everyone but some family members may have difficulty expressing their thoughts, feelings and emotions; they may not understand dementia and may not have learned about dementia. They may feel sadness, confusion, anger, guilt or shame. They may be fearful about death and dying, about being overwhelmed, about what will happen. They may be questioning what does the person with dementia want and need?

It is helpful for family members to learn to use the word “I”. To say “I need...” rather than “You should...”. The aim of the meeting is to find a way of caring for the person who has dementia, even if there is conflict among family members in other areas.

At the end of the meeting, make sure everyone has a clear understanding of what was discussed. Make sure that each person understands what he/she has agreed to do.

In Later Stages meetings need to take place regularly, there may be more ‘issues’ to discuss. Having regular meetings puts less pressure on family members to get everything resolved in just one meeting. It allows more time to process information and decision-making. When a family member is unable to attend a meeting, keep in touch by phone, text, email, Zoom or WhatsApp.