About Our Health Plans

We are the health plans from VNS Health. For 130 years, our organization has had a nonstop commitment to the communities we serve. We have deep experience caring for people at all stages of life, including those with multiple or complex health conditions.

Join a Health Plan

Whether you have just Medicare, have both Medicare and Medicaid, or need help with daily activities to live safely in the comfort of your home, we can help you choose the right plan for you.

Health Professionals

This is your gateway to the digital tools, policies, guidance, and materials you and your staff need to deliver high-quality service to your patients and clients in our health plans.

VNS Health Is More Than Health Plans

Our organization provides a full range of easy-to-access health care services that put you in control of your health and help you live your best life — at home and in your community.

Communicating and Dementia

October 11, 2023

Daughter comforting a mother gazing into the distance

HOW CAREGIVERS CAN AVOID ARGUMENTS AND FRUSTRATION

Caring for someone with memory loss can be extremely frustrating. People with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia often experience delusions and hallucinations. Delusions are false beliefs, such as thinking a relative is stealing from them. Hallucinations are false perceptions, such as hearing or seeing something that isn’t there.

The natural instinct is to reassure the person that these thoughts or perceptions aren’t real. But correcting or reasoning rarely work and usually just cause frustration for both people. Instead,

Listen to what the person is saying
Acknowledge his or her feelings
Reassure him or her
Redirect attention or distract when you can

For example, your father might think that strangers are watching him through his bedroom window. Instead of telling him that he is wrong, agree how scary that would be. Assure him that he’s safe with you, then suggest you go to the kitchen for a snack. Consider closing the curtains before he goes back into the bedroom. Similarly, if your wife is convinced you stole her wallet, offer to help her look for it. Other tips that can help:

Reduce distractions that might cause or add to confusion. Bright lighting can minimize shadows that might be misinterpreted, and keeping TVs or music at a low volume can reduce background noises that may add to confusion.
A gentle touch, such as a pat on the arm, can help bring someone back to the present time and place.
Take your loved one’s concerns seriously. Let him or her know you care. Your tone of voice and facial expressions matter.
Don’t be upset or angry if you’re accused. A smile and encouragement can go a long way in comforting a person with dementia.

Keep in mind that your loved one may experience delusions and hallucinations that provide comfort. If that’s the case, you may not need to address them. Also, remember that it is possible that your loved one might be a victim, so watch for signs of abuse and check out any suspicions or accusations that could be true.

Last updated 10/01/2021.