Insights from The Orlando Senior Help Desk: Helping a loved one with dementia understand the loss of a spouse

When someone living with dementia loses a spouse, families often face a heartbreaking dilemma: Should they repeatedly tell their loved one that their partner has died, even if the person may forget and ask again later?

Professionals experienced in grief counseling and dementia care generally recommend that the person be told the truth at least once. Individuals with dementia or other neurological impairments still have the right to know when someone they love has died. Sharing the news respectfully acknowledges their relationship and their dignity.

However, dementia affects memory and emotiona...