Photographing someone with Dementia or Alzheimers Disease

You know how there are some people who come into your life - who just make you want to be a better person? Well I’ve been blessed by meeting many many people like that. I’ve had many sessions with many over the course of 20 years but there are a few that really stand out in my memory and that changed me. 

There was one session of a woman and her mom who had the advanced stages of dementia. We had the session at the beautiful woman’s nursing home and what happened felt nothing short of a miracle. Throughout the session the Mom was very happy and we all had cheerful banter back and forth. However, she was not aware of the daughter right next to her. Until, this one flash moment, when the Mom looked over to her daughter and said - I love you. I see you. I know you daughter. 

Did you just have to grab a tissue. Well let me tell you, I am a crier and I did everything I could to keep it together. Until I got back to my car. And then I fell apart. It was amazing to experience such a moment. A true gift. And yes, I captured that shot and you can see it here below.

So fast forward a few years and we were trying to schedule a personal branding headshot session for the daughter during one of my visits back to Connecticut. But thanks to COVID, that was not to be this year. 

I received an email from her that said she wanted to pay it forward and wanted me to use the monies from her planned session for someone else. Again, I meet so many people so how could I decide on how to choose what to do with this woman’s precious money.

So I prayed. And I woke up one morning and knew exactly what I wanted to do with it. I wanted to offer up holiday family photos for the women and children at Shepherd’s Gate. And she agreed! Nothing felt so right to me once the planning began. 

This past Saturday we did just that. It was a beautiful experience and I’m honored to share my gifts and my generous client’s funds to be able to give these women and children memories that they will cherish forever. 

This holiday season, I ask you to listen to how you can help others with your time and your gifts. So many are struggling in many different ways. Not just money. Not just health. Not just loneliness. Everyone can do something to help someone else. And it doesn’t cost a dime.

On a side note, this woman has also created such a fun idea and activity to do with family (even on zoom!) It’s called Caring Cards. "Bridging generations through conversations" isn't just our tag line! It's our mission.

Caring Cards® help bridge generations by providing over 50 thought provoking questions that open meaningful conversations. They are comprised of a wide range of topics suitable for all ages and stages of life.

These conversation cards were carefully designed and tested to make it easy to explore memories, wisdom and personal histories with family and friends.

Although Caring Cards were originally designed to engage someone with dementia, they have quickly been embraced by anyone seeking to promote meaningful connection especially with aging loved ones.

Children and teens in particular may struggle with or avoid spending time with elders. Caring Cards help generations find common ground through the sharing of oral histories which strengthens the relationship and deepens the bond.

Caring Cards make a thoughtful and lasting gift for family and friends. Their convenient packaging is perfect for tucking into your purse, pocket or car so they're always handy!

In addition, home health care agencies, skilled nursing and assisted livings communities, youth and support groups and even financial advisors are a few of the many who offer Caring Cards to caregivers and their families as a useful and appreciated tool.