At Sherwood Heights Adult Living, we understand that supporting a loved one with dementia comes with both heartfelt moments and tough decisions. One of the most common questions families ask is: “Should I correct them when they say something that isn’t true?”

It’s a complicated question, especially when your instinct is to help your loved one stay grounded in reality. But when it comes to dementia, truth and connection are not always the same thing.

Understanding Dementia: What’s Happening?

Dementia is a general term for cognitive decline that affects memory, reasoning, and communication. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, over 6 million Americans live with some form of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. While Sherwood Heights is not a memory care facility, we do provide compassionate support for residents with early- to mid-stage dementia, so long as they do not exhibit exit-seeking or wandering behaviors.

We emphasize routine, reassurance, and respectful care. But families often need guidance on how to interact in everyday conversations. That’s where the question of correcting comes in.

Why Correction Might Do More Harm Than Good

Research from dementia care experts like Teepa Snow and organizations such as Dementia UK suggests that correcting someone with dementia—especially when they are confused or distressed—can cause more harm than help. It may lead to:

• Embarrassment or shame
• Heightened confusion
• Anxiety or agitation
• Damaged trust between you and your loved one

Instead of correction, professionals recommend validation—a gentle approach that accepts their reality and responds with empathy.

What Validation Looks Like in Practice

If your loved one says, “I need to get ready for work,” even though they’ve been retired for years, instead of correcting them, you might respond with:

“You always worked so hard—what did you love most about your job?”

This shifts the focus from facts to feelings, inviting connection instead of confrontation.

Or if they say, “I need to go pick up the kids,” a kind redirect might be:

“They’re safe and sound—let’s have a cup of tea while we wait.”

The Bigger Picture: Supporting with Dignity

Dementia can make the world feel unpredictable. At Sherwood Heights, we strive to be a steady, comforting presence. Our caregivers understand the value of patience, soft redirection, and creating a calm environment that reduces confusion and stress.

For families, that means learning to communicate in ways that prioritize dignity over accuracy. And that’s okay. When you respond to what your loved one feels, rather than what they say, you help build trust and preserve connection, even as their memory changes.

Final Thoughts

Coping with a loved one’s dementia isn’t about getting every interaction right—it’s about showing up with compassion, even when things don’t make sense. At Sherwood Heights, we’re here to support families through this journey by offering a warm, home-like environment, thoughtful routines, and staff trained to meet residents where they are.

Do you have questions about our care approach for residents with dementia?

Reach out today to learn how Sherwood Heights can be part of your support system.