First Visit Success: Building Connection Across Memory Differences

Standing outside their door, your mind races. Will they remember you? What if they don’t? What if it’s awkward? Take a breath. This guide will help you navigate uncertainty with grace.

Pre-Visit Preparation:

Bring These Items:
✓ Recent photos (printed, high contrast)
✓ Familiar scent (lavender, vanilla)
✓ Simple activity (coloring, photos)
✓ Their favorite snack (if allowed)
✓ Backup conversation starters

Mental Prep Checklist:
□ Let go of being remembered
□ Focus on this moment, not past
□ Prepare for any response
□ Set realistic time goal (15-30 min)
□ Remember: Connection > Cognition

The VISIT Protocol:

Validate their reality
• If they think you’re someone else, go with it
• “Tell me about…” works better than correcting

Introduce yourself naturally
• “Hi, I’m Sarah. I’m so happy to see you!”
• Wear a name tag if helpful

Share something concrete
• “I brought photos of the garden”
• “This reminds me of your stories about…”

Invite participation
• “Which photo do you like?”
• “What does this smell remind you of?”

Time your exit gracefully
• “I’ll let you rest now”
• “Thank you for spending time with me”

Conversation Starters That Work:
• “This photo made me think of you…”
• “I’d love your opinion on…”
• “What’s your favorite thing about today?”
• “This [object/smell/song] is interesting…”

When Things Feel Awkward:
• Silence is okay – be present
• Describe what you see/hear/smell
• Share your own feelings
• Use props (photos, objects)
• Try a simple activity

Success Redefined:
✓ They seemed calm
✓ Any positive response
✓ You stayed present
✓ Connection happened (even briefly)