Insights from The Orlando Senior Help Desk: 10 tips for living with someone who has dementia

Agree, never argue. Divert, never reason. Distract, never shame. Reassure, never lecture. Reminisce, never say "remember..." Repeat, never say "I told you..." Do what they can do, never say "You can't..." Ask, never demand. Encourage, never condescend. Reinforce, never force.

Patience and encouragement are essential when caring for loved ones. While most seniors face major adjustments when transitioning to an elder-care community, Jewish seniors face additional challenges. Not only do they lose their homes, and many of their friends, but they also lose ties to their cultural heritage. This is where the Jewish Pavilion, a 501c3 non-profit, steps in. The Pavilion serves as a resource that provides room visits, festive holiday celebrations, and more to 450 Jewish residents in fifty facilities for seniors. The Jewish Pavilion promotes inclusion, and thousands of seniors of all faiths are welcomed into our programs. http://www.JewishPavilion.org

The Orlando Senior Help Desk (407-678-9363) helps thousands of callers navigate their way through the daunting senior maze, alleviating caregiver stress while giving advice on all types of elder issues. http://www.OrlandoSeniorHelpDesk.org.