A nurse is caring for a client who has dementia and asks to see her partner, who died several years ago. Which of the following responses should the nurse make when using validation therapy?

• A. Let's talk about your partner's death.
• B. I am sure you miss your partner.
• C. You know your partner died many years ago.
• D. Let's take a walk. We can look for your partner.

Answer: (B)

Validation therapy centers on acknowledging and accepting the dementia patient’s feelings and perceived reality rather than correcting them. When the client asks to see a deceased partner, the healing approach is to validate the emotion behind the request. Saying, “I am sure you miss your partner,” recognizes her longing and provides reassurance without challenging what she believes. This helps reduce anxiety, builds trust, and makes her feel understood.

Other responses try to correct or redirect rather than validate. Tapping into the date and death facts challenges her perception, which can lead to agitation or distress. A direct correction like stating the partner died years ago dismisses her current experience. Offering to look for the partner shifts to a task without addressing the emotional need, which may not alleviate her emotional discomfort.