Ruby represents mid-to late-stage dementia. A ruby was chosen to because of its colour. In the stoplight sequence, red means “stop.” During this stage, fine motor in the mouth, eyes, fingers, and feet stop.
When interacting with those who are at this stage, we must remember to stop or slow down with our actions.
Some basic characteristics of a Ruby include:
Both for you and your loved one, communication and understanding can become extremely difficult.
It's difficult for a Ruby to understand or comprehend what you are saying to them as they can only understand about every fourth word you're saying.
A Ruby is losing fine motor skills in their mouth so their speech will become very difficult to understand; automatic social chitchat is the exception. Due to the right side of the brain being preserved, social chitchat, rhythm and music will be very easy to understand.
When you are trying to communicate with a Ruby, there are a few important things to remember:
For more information call Senior Helpers today to get the help your loved one and family need today.
Don't forget to learn more in this series by reading parts one though three below:
Part l: Senior Gems: Sapphire and Diamond
Part ll: Emerald Gem:Early to Mid-Stage Dementia
Part lll: Amber Gem: Mid-Stage Dementia