If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia, then you may have experienced some difficult behavior with them. This can make it tricky when introducing a baby into the family. You may want your loved one to meet your baby but are concerned about any risks which might be involved. You may also be worried about taking your baby into the environment of a nursing home. Especially as you may have heard stories involving abuse or nursing home falls. It can seem like a chaotic environment. This article will hopefully give you some advice and help to put some of your worries at ease.
Visit The Home First Or Speak To Family Members
If you have not visited them for a while, then you may want to do so first without your baby. This will give you an idea of their condition and allow you to asses the situation. This may be difficult with a new baby, so you may want to ask for advice from other family members who have seen them.
Speak To Carers
Whether they are in a home or have home care, speak to their carer about bringing a baby to see them. They will know their situation and will be able to advise you. They might also be able to be there when you bring your baby, so you have someone trained at hand if you need it.
If your loved one is in a home, then carers may be able to make sure that your loved one is in their own room before you arrive to limit your contact with other residents.
Make Sure They Have No Illnesses Your Baby Could Catch
Babies are vulnerable to illness, and so are elderly people. Keep both safe by not visiting while either is unwell. You may want to ask their carers about this. If they are in a home, you may also need to consider if anyone else has any illnesses.
Bring Someone Else
Bring another family member along with you who can help you. Preferable, someone who knows them well. They can keep an eye out if your loved one wants to grab at you or the baby or if they find anything upsetting.
Keep The Baby Close To You
You may choose to keep your baby close to you in a sling. This way, no one can grab at the baby. When you visit your loved one, you can asses their mood and give them the baby to hold if it is safe. For people with Alzheimer’s, often, some days are worse than others. You might catch them on a really good day, or you might not. Keep the baby close to you until you are comfortable with taking them out of the sling, or you may choose not to.
Keep A Close Eye
Keep a watchful eye on your loved one if you give them the baby to hold and do not leave them alone with them.
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My mother had dementia and died in 2017.
I’m so sorry 😞
Thank you; not a day goes by I do not think of her.
💗
My brother had to introduce him youngest child to our mother, who had dementia. Bless her.
I’m so sorry about your mom 😔
Thank you so much for sharing my post!
We introduced my son and my daughter to their great grandmother, who had severe dementia, without issue. From memory she once complained about one of their names but that was it. Main thing with her, was to keep the visit short and while she did hold the babies, we were still supporting them as well.
I’m sorry about your grandmother 😔
This was almost rwenty years ago. She died long ago but thank you.
💗