People who have been diagnosed with a brain aneurysm may be more susceptible to certain mental health conditions, according to a study published by the American Heart Association (AHA).

The knowledge of an unruptured aneurysm increased the risk of anxiety, stress, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and alcohol or drug misuse by 10% over a 10-year period, the researchers found.

An unruptured aneurysm occurs when a blood vessel in the brain becomes weak and bulges out — creating the risk of a potentially deadly rupture, per the AHA.

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The effect was most seen in adults under 40 years of age, and the risk was three times greater among those who received an official mental health diagnosis.

The researchers analyzed data for 85,438 adults with untreated aneurysms between 2011 and 2019, comparing them to 331,000 adults without aneurysms.

The data came from the National Health Information Database in South Korea.

The findings were published in Stroke, the peer-reviewed scientific journal of the American Stroke Association, a division of the AHA.

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“As a neurosurgeon who treats cerebral aneurysms, I often see people who do not undergo surgery, yet feel fear and/or anxiety about their condition before each imaging or screening test to monitor their condition,” said study co-author Na-Rae Yang, M.D., PhD, an assistant professor of neurosurgery in the department of neurosurgery at Ewha Womans University College of Medicine in Seoul, South Korea, in a press release.

“Even when it is medically judged and explained that follow-up observation is the best course for their aneurysm rather than surgery, they still worry about the very slim chance of developing a fatal brain bleed.”

The fact that younger adults were more likely to have a “significant psychological burden” could be linked to other life stressors, an expert noted. (iStock)

The fact that younger adults were more likely to have a “significant psychological burden” could be linked to other life stressors, Yang noted, such as building their career and/or raising a family.

“This elevated rate of mental health conditions suggests that younger people might be particularly vulnerable, highlighting the need for targeted mental health support and interventions for this age group,” she added.

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Dr. Daniel T. Lackland, an American Heart Association EPI and Stroke Council member and professor of epidemiology at the Medical University of South Carolina, was not involved in the study but said he was not surprised by the findings.

“While there is no evidence that aneurysms directly cause anxiety and mental disorders, this study suggests there may be a connection between stress and aneurysms, and that unruptured aneurysms can increase emotional distress,” he told Fox News Digital. 

The knowledge of an unruptured aneurysm increased the risk of anxiety, stress, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and alcohol or drug misuse by 10% over a 10-year period, the researchers found. (iStock)

“For example, an enlarging aneurysm may physically affect nearby sympathetic ganglia, which could produce panic or anxiety symptoms.”

Extreme emotional stress could also increase the risk of an enlarged aneurysm rupturing, which could increase anxiety, Lackland added.

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Based on the findings, Lackland recommends maintaining active and regular communication with health providers, particularly for individuals with a family history of brain aneurysms. 

“If diagnosed with a brain aneurysm, [the patient should] follow through with the appropriate and proper treatment,” he advised.

“Brain aneurysms, like aortic aneurysms, are life-threatening if they rupture, but can be treated with appropriate therapy and/or procedures.”

Although the findings suggest an association between aneurysms and mental health conditions, they can’t prove cause and effect, the researchers noted. (iStock)

Dr. Bradley Serwer, a cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, a Cincinnati-based company that offers cardiovascular and anesthesiology services to hospitals nationwide, has also noticed this phenomenon in his own practice.

“Whether the patient is told they have a brain aneurysm or they have an abnormal heart valve, irregular heart rhythm or aortic aneurysm, the psychological ramifications are significant,” Serwer, who was not involved in the research, told Fox News Digital.

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Younger patients may have fewer coping mechanisms, he noted.  

“They tend to perseverate more on the medical conditions, and this can lead to anxiety.”

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This study highlights the importance of taking a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, Serwer said, as well as the “dramatic need” for more behavioral and mental health services to support these individuals.

Potential limitations

The study did have some limitations, the researchers acknowledged.

The analysis relied on a national database of medical codes rather than input from individual patients.

“Brain aneurysms, like aortic aneurysms, are life-threatening if they rupture, but can be treated with appropriate therapy and/or procedures.”

Additionally, the research did not take into account the size or location of the aneurysms.

Although the findings suggest an association between aneurysms and mental health conditions, they can’t prove cause and effect, the researchers noted.

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“As the authors indicate, there is inadequate evidence to indicate that brain aneurysms cause increased mental health risks,” said Lackland. 

“Also, the study was done in Korea — and it is unclear if the results can be generalized to other populations.”

Working through the night can put a toll on your body and overall health. 

More than 9 million adults in the United States work shifts at night, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.  

There are many jobs in a variety of industries that require staff at night, including medical professionals, flight attendants, hotel receptionists, construction workers, truck drivers, firefighters, law enforcement and others. 

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Working the night shift requires adjusted sleep schedules and meal times, which are two contributing factors to the health problems associated with late-night hours that could include an increased risk of cancer, gastrointestinal disorders and more.

1. Increased cancer risk
2. Possible gastrointestinal disorders
3. Increased risk for cardiovascular disease
4. Psychological concerns

1. Increased cancer risk

Studies have shown an increased risk of certain cancers among those who work the night shift.

The National Toxicology Program (NTP) drew its own conclusions based on “systematic review methods and established criteria” about a link between working the night shift to certain cancers, according to a 2021 report by the organization. 

The NTP found “high evidence” that frequently working the night shift disrupts circadian rhythms and can cause breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men. 

A circadian rhythm is the body’s internal 24-hour clock. One factor that affects a circadian rhythm is light. 

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Working the night shift disrupts the body’s circadian rhythm because a person is working during a time when the body’s natural instinct is to sleep. 

If you are someone who often works the night shift, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends trying to stick to a similar sleep schedule even on the days when you are off from work to help your body get into a better routine. 

Many health risks associated with working the night shift come with the disruption of a person’s sleep schedule.  (iStock)

2. Possible gastrointestinal disorders

When you work the night shift, you may eat at odd hours. 

Possible gastrointestinal disorders you could face include abdominal pain, gas, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, change in appetite, indigestion and heartburn, according to The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). 

A disturbed circadian rhythm can again be to blame for these gastrointestinal problems because the body’s internal clock may not properly function when food is eaten at abnormal hours during the night. 

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It is important to keep yourself fueled with food and hydrated with plenty of water while you’re on your feet working long hours at night. 

What you eat at work, and even where you eat, can help ease these digestive problems, according to NIOSH. 

Recommended foods for work hours include vegetables, salads, soups, fruits, wholegrain sandwiches, yogurt, cheese, eggs, nuts and green tea. 

Those who frequently work night shifts could experience digestive issues.  (iStock)

The NIOSH also suggests seeking a different environment to eat away from work and try to enjoy your meal with other coworkers. 

Avoid eating between midnight and 6 a.m. if possible to help form a relatively normal meal routine, NIOSH recommends.

3. Increased risk for cardiovascular disease

Heart health could be a risk from many years of frequent night shifts. 

Research has made a connection between certain risk factors that could be prevalent in those who work the night shift that are associated with cardiovascular disease, such as smoking and metabolic disturbances, according to NIOSH. 

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Those with high blood pressure could be at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes if they work frequent night shifts, according to findings published in August 2022 by the Journal of the American Heart Association. 

Research suggests people who work the night shift have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.  (iStock)

The study spanned over 12 years, in which 36,939 participants in the U.K. Biobank were monitored. 

It was found that those who had high blood pressure and worked night shifts had a 16% higher risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and stroke than those who worked during normal daytime hours, according to the study. 

4. Psychological concerns

Working the night shift can come with many psychological concerns. 

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Individuals who frequently work during the night can experience extreme fatigue and feelings of isolation. 

One mental health concern prevalent for those who work the night shift is depression. 

Extreme fatigue and feelings of isolation are often present among night shift workers.  (iStock)

In 2023, a study was published in the National Library of Medicine backing this concern. 

A systematic review and meta-analysis was done to determine whether there was a link between depression and nurses working night shifts. 

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The study found “a significant association between night shift work, the circadian and sleep disruption it causes and the risk of depression in nurses.” 

New Hampshire health officials said Tuesday that a person who tested positive for the mosquito-borne infection eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) has died. 

An adult from Hampstead, New Hampshire, who tested positive for EEEV infection, “was hospitalized due to severe central nervous system disease, and has passed away due to their illness,” the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Public Health Services (DPHS) said in a statement. “DHHS offers our sympathies to the individual’s family and friends.”

EEEV is a rare but serious disease transmitted to people by infected mosquitos. The last reported human EEEV infection in New Hampshire was in 2014, when DHHS identified three human infections, including two fatalities, according to the department. In addition to the person with EEEV infection announced Tuesday, EEEV has been detected in one horse and seven mosquito batches in New Hampshire so far this summer. 

“In New Hampshire, mosquitoes transmit infections including Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus, West Nile Virus, and Jamestown Canyon Virus,” New Hampshire State Epidemiologist Dr. Benjamin Chan said in a statement. “We believe there is an elevated risk for EEEV infections this year in New England given the positive mosquito samples identified. The risk will continue into the fall until there is a hard frost that kills the mosquito [sic]. Everybody should take steps to prevent mosquito bites when they are outdoors.”

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New Hampshire health officials said EEEV can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, and joint pain. 

EEEV can also cause severe neurological disease, such as inflammation of the brain and membranes around the spinal cord, known as encephalitis and meningitis, respectively. Approximately one-third of all people who develop encephalitis from EEEV die from their infection, and many others experience life-long physical or mental impacts, according to the department. There is no vaccine or antiviral treatment for EEEV. 

EEEV has also been detected in neighboring states. In Massachusetts, one person, one horse and 69 mosquito samples have tested positive, and in Vermont, one person and 47 mosquito samples have tested positive. Vermont state health officials on Aug. 9 announced the first human case in the state since 2012. That case involved a male in his 40s from Chittenden County who was hospitalized on July 16 and left the hospital a week later.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates there are about 11 human cases of eastern equine encephalitis in the U.S. per year. 

The town of Plymouth announced on Friday, Aug. 23, 2024, that it’s closing public outdoor recreation facilities from dusk until dawn each day after a horse in the town was infected with eastern equine encephalitis.  (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File)

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New Hampshire health officials warned residents to prevent EEEV infection by taking steps to prevent mosquito bites, including using effective mosquito repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants when outside, and avoiding outdoor activities in the early morning and evening hours when mosquitoes are most active. 

Massachusetts began aerial spraying for mosquitos over the weekend.  (Lane Turner/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

The department said it is also important for residents to remove standing water from around their homes to reduce mosquito populations, and ensure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens without holes.

Over the weekend, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) announced plans to conduct aerial spraying for mosquitoes in areas of Plymouth County, and truck-mounted spraying in parts of Worcester County. As of Saturday, 10 communities in Massachusetts were raised to high or critical risk for EEEV.

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“We have not seen an outbreak of EEE for four years in Massachusetts,” Massachusetts DPH Commissioner Robbie Goldstein. MD, PhD said in a statement Saturday. “This year’s outbreak and activity raise the risk for communities in parts of the state. We need to use all our available tools to reduce risk and protect our communities. We are asking everyone to do their part.” 

The town of Plymouth, about 40 miles southeast of Boston, said Friday it was taking “proactive measures” amid the high risk status for EEEV by closing all parks and fields from dusk until dawn. 

As much as 60% of baby foods on the market may not meet the nutritional standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO), a new study found.

The findings were published in the journal Nutrients last week.

Researchers at The George Institute for Global Health — an independent medical research institute headquartered in Australia — reviewed 651 infant and toddler food products sold in the top 10 U.S. grocery chains, according to a press release.

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Seventy percent of the products did not include adequate amounts of protein, 25% did not meet calorie requirements, and 20% had sodium levels that exceeded WHO’s recommendations.

The researchers compared the foods’ data to WHO’s nutrient and promotion profile model (NPPM), which supports “appropriate promotion of food products” for infants and young children in Europe.

Baby food “pouches” were ranked as some of the least healthy choices, with fewer than 7% meeting total sugar recommendations, the institute noted.

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Infant formulas were not included in the study, as those are regulated separately by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the researchers noted.

“Only products available in the baby food section of the grocery store were included. This meant [that] yogurts located in the fridge section, drinks section, or under the ‘dairy, eggs and fridge’ tab online were not included,” they wrote.

Convenience foods labeled as culprits

Dr. Elizabeth Dunford, research fellow at The George Institute and adjunct assistant professor of nutrition at the University of North Carolina, expressed concern about the prevalence of “processed convenience foods” for babies and toddlers.

Baby food pouches were ranked the unhealthiest of the reviewed options. (iStock)

“Early childhood is a crucial period of rapid growth, and when taste preferences and dietary habits form, potentially paving the way for the development of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and some cancers later in life,” Dunford said in the release. 

“Time-poor parents are increasingly choosing convenience foods, unaware that many of these products lack key nutrients needed for their child’s development and tricked into believing they are healthier than they really are.”

A ‘health halo’

The study also highlighted “misleading marketing practices,” claiming that more than 99% of baby food products contained at least one “prohibited claim” on the packaging. 

“We found that all but four products featured at least one prohibited claim on the pack, with an average of four prohibited claims per pack,” Dr. Daisy Coyle, research fellow and dietitian at The George Institute, told Fox News Digital.

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“These claims often give products a ‘health halo,’ deceiving busy parents into thinking they are a lot healthier than they are.”

Some of the most-cited misleading verbiage included “non-genetically modified (GM),” “organic,” “no BPA” and “no artificial colors/flavors.”

“These numbers are truly alarming when you consider we’re talking about food for infants and toddlers,” a nutritionist told Fox News Digital.  (iStock)

“We saw this not only in the use of misleading claims, but also in the use of misleading names, where the product name did not reflect the main ingredients found on the ingredient list.”

Some products claimed to be “fruits” or “vegetables” even though those were not the primary ingredients, for example.

Among U.S. children 2 to 5 years old, the prevalence of obesity was 12.7% from 2017 to March 2020.

“Our findings highlight the urgent need for better regulation and guidance in the infant and toddler foods market in the United States — the health of future generations depends on it,” added Dunford.

Among U.S. children 2 to 5 years old, the prevalence of obesity was 12.7% from 2017 to March 2020, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Based on the study findings, the researchers advised parents and caregivers to pay close attention to the claims made on baby food packaging. (iStock)

Based on the study findings, the researchers advised parents and caregivers to pay close attention to the claims made on baby food packaging.

“The ingredients list and nutrition label provide a far more accurate representation of what is in the product,” Coyle said. “One important thing to look out for is the amount of added sugar.”

Fox News Digital reached out to the American Academy of Pediatrics, major baby food manufacturers and WHO requesting comment.

‘Critical issue’

Katie Thomson, an Oregon-based registered dietitian and founder of the Square Baby nutrition system, was not involved in the study but said it sheds light on a “critical issue.”

“These numbers are truly alarming when you consider we’re talking about food for infants and toddlers,” she told Fox News Digital. 

“Time-poor parents are increasingly choosing convenience foods, unaware that many of these products lack key nutrients needed for their child’s development,” a nutritionist warned. (iStock)

“The core issue is that many of these products, especially pouches, are far too sweet to offer proper, balanced nutrition. This not only fails to meet nutritional needs, but also hinders the development of a child’s palate.”

“We’re essentially setting them up for a lifetime of poor eating habits.”

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As a mother, Thomson said, she understands the appeal of convenient, self-feeding options like pouches — but warned that this approach is “ultimately detrimental to children’s long-term health and eating habits.”

Lack of protein is the most glaring issue, according to Thomson — “it’s fundamental for everything from muscle development to immune function in growing bodies.”

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“Many of these foods are also lacking in healthy fats, which are essential for brain development, and important micronutrients like calcium, iron and vitamin D,” she said. 

“There’s also a noticeable absence of those nutrient-dense green and earthy vegetables.”

The researchers reviewed 651 infant and toddler food products sold in the top 10 U.S. grocery chains. (iStock)

Another often overlooked aspect, Thomson noted, is failure to include common allergens. 

“Early introduction of allergens, like peanuts, eggs and dairy, can actually help prevent food allergies from developing,” she said. 

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“However, many baby food products fail to include these important components, which can create a whole host of health issues later in life.”

When choosing nutrition for babies, Thomson recommends offering a diverse range of foods, flavors, textures and colors, with a balance of fat, fiber and protein, while keeping sugar content low. 

Infant formulas were not included in the study, as those are regulated separately by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the researchers noted. (iStock)

She recommends the following breakdown for a 4-ounce balanced meal.

• Less than 6 grams of sugar
• 2-4 grams of fat
• 2-4 grams of fiber
• 2-5 grams of protein

Potential limitations

The George Institute for Global Health, which has received previous funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the National Health and Medical Research Council, and other investors, stated that it received no external funding for this specific study.

The study did have some limitations, the researchers acknowledged.

“Although we analyzed data from a large representative dataset, we were unable to link to sales data for each product,” Coyle told Fox News Digital. 

“More research is needed to know whether American families are more likely to purchase products that fail to meet WHO requirements,” the researchers said. (iStock)

“More research is needed to know whether American families are more likely to purchase products that fail to meet WHO requirements.”

Another limitation was that the WHO NPPM was developed for the European region.

So it is “not necessarily 100% applicable to the U.S. infant and toddler foods market,” the researchers stated in the findings. 

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Parents and carers are not to blame, the researchers emphasized.

Coyle of The George Institute told Fox News Digital that “government regulation” is needed “to transform this sector to ensure infant and toddler foods are healthy and marketed appropriately.”

She added, “The health of our youngest generation and future generations depends on it.”

For loved ones of dementia patients, communication is often one of the biggest challenges.

Not only can it be difficult for the person with dementia to express themselves, but the person can also experience a heightened emotional reaction to what might seem like a simple statement, question or observation from others, experts say.

“When communicating with a person with dementia, it is essential to keep in mind the importance of empathy, simplicity and respect,” Dr. Michele Nealon, a psychologist and president of The Chicago School, told Fox News Digital. 

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“The goal is to communicate in a manner that elevates the individual’s dignity and sense of well-being, provides emotional support and reduces anxiety.”

To help ensure smooth, stress-free communication, dementia experts shared some examples of the right things to say to people suffering from Alzheimer’s or other cognitive disorders.

1. ‘Can you help me?’

It can sometimes be difficult to get a person with dementia to go somewhere with you or to complete a task, according to Christina Chartrand, the Florida-based vice president of Senior Helpers, a home care company that often helps dementia patients.

“If you ask them for help, many times they will be happy to go to a location or assist with a task — it feels purposeful,” she told Fox News Digital. 

“It is important for them to feel like they are contributing and have purpose.”

2. ‘I understand you’re feeling upset’

Validating the person’s emotions normalizes their feelings, even if it’s a reaction to something that doesn’t make sense or isn’t even real, according to Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a New York City neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind.

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“You can also say, ‘It’s normal to feel that way,’ or ‘I hear you,’” she told Fox News Digital.

“This prevents head-on confrontation or argument about whether their emotions are ‘justified’ in reality-based terms, which might induce frustration or confusion.”

3. ‘I enjoy spending time with you’

Showing affection can reassure people with dementia and help them feel better about themselves through social interaction, said Hafeez.

“Appreciation or gratitude is likely to create a rosier setting.”

“Appreciation or gratitude is likely to create a rosier setting in which patients are encouraged to let their guard down about their cognitive challenges,” she said.  

“It doesn’t dwell on their limitations, and emphasizes the vital role they still play in your life – a message that can bolster self-esteem.”

4. ‘Shall we sit over here?’

It can be helpful to give the person a simple task or change of scene, Hafeez advised.

“Simple distractions can help reset the mood, especially if the person seems agitated,” she told Fox News Digital. 

Validating people’s emotions normalizes their feelings, even if it’s a reaction to something that doesn’t make sense or isn’t even real, one expert said. (iStock)

“Instead of telling them what they are experiencing is wrong, gently offer an alternative to shift their focus without confrontation.”

5. ‘You are safe’

It’s important to reassure safety, particularly when someone with dementia feels disoriented or anxious, according to Adria Thompson, a licensed speech-language pathologist in Kentucky with 10 years of experience in dementia care. 

“A simple affirmation, such as ‘You are safe,’ can provide immense comfort,” Thompson told Fox News Digital. 

“This is especially powerful when you get on their eye level to convey this message directly.”

6. ‘Would you like to listen to some music?’

Music stimulates positive feelings and memories, even in late-stage dementia patients, according to Hafeez. 

“It’s a calming, joyful way to engage them,” she said. 

“It is essential to keep in mind the importance of empathy, simplicity and respect.”

“Music doesn’t require gray matter or a detailed conversational agenda, so you are less likely to experience stress or confusion while affording reciprocal enrichment.”

7. ‘Tell me about your favorite memory’

“Encouraging someone with dementia to share a positive memory can help them connect with their past and feel more grounded,” said Dr. Michele Nealon, a psychologist and president of The Chicago School, to Fox News Digital.

“It allows them to engage in a conversation that is comforting and familiar, which can be reassuring and validating for them.’

8. ‘I’m sorry’

Apologizing and showing empathy can be an effective way to de-escalate situations with someone who has dementia, according to Chartrand.

“Even if you haven’t done anything wrong, saying ‘I’m sorry’ acknowledges the person’s feelings and can help calm them down,” she said. 

“A simple affirmation, such as ‘You are safe,’ can provide immense comfort,” an expert told Fox News Digital.  (iStock)

“People with dementia may have difficulty processing information or reasoning, so meeting them with understanding and compassion rather than trying to correct or explain can create a more positive and peaceful interaction.”

This approach helps to maintain their dignity and ensures that they feel supported and understood, Chartrand added.

9. ‘Let’s do this together’

“Offering to do an activity together, whether it’s folding laundry, setting the table or any other simple task, encourages a sense of participation and teamwork,” Nealon said. 

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“It helps the person feel useful and involved, which can boost self-esteem and create a positive shared experience.”

10. ‘Let’s try it for now’

Getting a person with dementia to try something new or go somewhere can be challenging, Chartrand noted. 

“If you ask in a way that is not permanent but is just ‘for now,’ it can provide a more positive experience,” she said.

11. ‘Can you tell me more about that?’

Michael Kramer, a long-term care educator and director of community relations for retirement residences in Ontario, often asks this open-ended question of his residents, as it invites the person to share thoughts and feelings. 

“This in turn fosters genuine engagement and provides insight into their perspective,” he told Fox News Digital. 

Instead of simply saying “goodbye” when you leave, it’s best to inform the patient of why you’re leaving, an expert said. (iStock)

“Asking this question also helps to avoid frustration by allowing them to express themselves in their own terms.”

12. ‘I have to go now, so I can get my shopping done for dinner’

Instead of simply saying “goodbye” when you leave, it’s best to inform the patient of why you’re leaving, according to Leonie Rosenstiel, president of Dayspring Resources, Inc., in Albuquerque, New Mexico. 

“‘Goodbye’ might sound as if you’re going away for a long time, and that thought might upset them,” she said.

13. ‘I’ll remind you about that in a minute’

Due to the forgetfulness that dementia often causes, people with the condition can become hyper-fixated on a certain topic or detail, according to Kramer. 

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“This phrase is useful when dealing with memory issues, because it offers a gentle reminder without creating pressure or frustration,” he said. 

“It also provides reassurance that important details won’t be forgotten.”

14. ‘It’s OK if you don’t remember — let’s enjoy the moment’

This reassures the person that it’s acceptable to forget things and shifts the focus to the present moment, Nealon noted. 

“The secret to stay-safe communication is to make the interaction one that is relaxing, friendly and non-threatening,” an expert said.  (iStock)

“It helps alleviate any pressure they might feel to remember and encourages mindfulness, which can reduce stress and anxiety,” she added.

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Hafeez agreed, pointing out that memory loss can be frustrating or embarrassing for the person with dementia. 

“Instead of calling attention to their forgetfulness or expecting them to remember, this expression relieves pressure and encourages a more relaxed interaction,” she said.

15. ‘Let’s look at these photos together’

Engaging in an activity like looking at photos can stimulate positive memories and provide a distraction from any confusion or agitation they may be feeling, according to Nealon. 

Engaging in an activity like looking at photos can stimulate positive memories and provide a distraction from any confusion or agitation they may be feeling. (iStock)

“It’s a way to connect emotionally and cognitively without putting pressure on them to remember details,” she said.

16. ‘Would you like to go for a walk together?’

Offering to engage in a simple, shared activity like walking can provide a sense of normalcy and companionship, according to Nealon. 

“Physical activity is also beneficial for reducing anxiety and can help improve mood,” she said.

“This invitation is non-demanding and promotes a calm and pleasant experience.”

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The common thread among all of these suggestions, according to Hafeez, is that they make the person feel safe and connected.

“The secret to stay-safe communication is to make the interaction one that is relaxing, friendly and non-threatening,” she said. 

“It is to be trusting, honest and genuine, and to make them feel connected to you.”