When I first stepped into VataVriksh Parent Care as an intern, I carried with me a theoretical understanding of dementia shaped by academic learning. While I was familiar with its clinical features, I had not yet experienced what it truly means to interact with individuals living with the condition. This internship became an opportunity to move beyond definitions and diagnoses, allowing me to witness the lived realities of dementia and the depth of care it requires.
Every Behavior Has a Meaning
One of my biggest learnings was that behaviors are rarely random. Individuals living with dementia may wander, repeat the same questions, follow familiar people, or appear restless. Initially, these behaviors can seem difficult to understand, but I gradually realized that they often reflect an underlying emotion, memory, habit, or unmet need.
This shift in perspective changed the way I looked at dementia care. Instead of asking, “Why is this person behaving this way?” I started asking, “What might they be trying to communicate?”
The Importance of Knowing the Person
During my internship, I observed that some individuals responded positively when they were engaged in activities related to their previous occupations or interests. Meaningful engagement often reduced restlessness and helped them feel more involved.
This experience taught me that dementia may affect memory, but a person’s identity, past experiences, and life roles continue to influence how they think and behave. Understanding these aspects is an important part of person-centred care.
Small Interactions Make a Big Difference
I also learned that communication is not only about words. A calm tone of voice, patient listening, reassurance, and simply spending time with someone can make a meaningful difference.
There were times when redirecting an individual was successful, while at other times the person remained anxious or continued repeating the same question. These experiences reminded me that every individual responds differently, and there is no single approach that works for everyone.
Meaningful Engagement Matters
Another important observation was that some individuals became more restless when they had little to do. Simple activities, conversations, or tasks often helped maintain their attention and reduce wandering. However, not everyone was interested in participating, highlighting the importance of tailoring activities to each person’s abilities, preferences, and current emotional state.
Beyond Clinical Knowledge
My internship taught me lessons that extended beyond psychology theories and clinical concepts. It helped me develop patience, observation skills, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for individualized care.
Working with individuals living with dementia reminded me that while memories may fade, emotions remain. The need to feel respected, understood, safe, and valued does not disappear because of a diagnosis.
Conclusion
My experience at VataVriksh Parent Care strengthened my understanding that effective dementia care is not just about managing symptoms—it is about understanding the person behind those symptoms.
As a psychology student, this internship reinforced the importance of approaching every individual with curiosity, compassion, and respect. It is a lesson that I hope to carry forward throughout my professional journey.
Looking for Compassionate Care for Elderly Parents?
If you or your loved ones are seeking a safe, nurturing, and dignified environment for elderly parents, VataVriksh Parent Care is here to help.
- Explore our Parent Care services
- Explore Day Care for Dementia Patients
- Schedule a visit or consultation
- Let VataVriksh Parent Care help your parents rediscover comfort, care, and peace
Written by:
Chahak
Intern, VataVriksh Parent Care
Clinical Psychology Student, Amity University, Gurugram, Haryana, IN
About Author:
Chahak is a dedicated Clinical Psychology student with a keen interest in mental well-being and continuous learning. She believes in empathy, curiosity, and using psychology to create meaningful change.
