Communication Tips For People With Dementia

Exchanging thoughts, feelings, and desires with others is an essential part of the human existence.

It's one way we remain connected to each other. But for your loved one with dementia, it becomes more challenging as the condition progresses. Keeping a line of communication with your loved one is important, no matter how difficult it becomes.

Memory loss affects people differently, but there are some common communication breakdowns you may start to notice in your loved one. He or she may have difficulty finding the right words, easily lose his/her train of thought, and repeat himself/herself. Your loved one may invent new words and have trouble relaying his thoughts into speech. He or she may also speak less often, use curse words more often, and use gestures more than speaking.

Communicating with a person with memory loss takes a great deal of time. Be patient. Let him or her know that you're listening and trying to understand his or her part of the conversation.

Be sure to give the person time to say what he or she wants to say. This can be as frustrating for the person as it is for you. You can give your loved one reassurance and encourage him or her to continue speaking.

Make sure not to argue with your loved one, as it is pointless and will only lead to the both of you being sad and resentful. If your loved one suffers from hearing loss too, your challenge to communicate has an added dimension. In addition to eye contact, you'll need to stand in front of your older adult to speak to him or her. Speak slowly, and use a low tone, as that's what people with hearing loss can hear well.

While your loved one may not respond in a fashion to which you are accustomed, he or she will benefit from the interaction. Call your loved one by name. It will help him or her to become oriented to you and the environment. Speak concisely and keep your message clear.

If you're looking to give your loved one instructions, break them down into simple steps. Ask one question at a time. If the person doesn't answer, give him or her a few minutes and then ask the question again in the same manner. You can also provide solutions instead of questions. Say “here is your coffee”, for example, instead of “do you want coffee?”

Finally, turn negatives into positives. Be aware of your attitude and body language, so you don't communicate in a threatening manner. This is a confusing and scary time for your loved one. Any time you can comfort and reassure your person by simplifying and guiding the conversation, you're going to have a better outcome. As with any changes in your loved one's condition, be sure to mention communication changes to your doctor. Changes may be caused by physical conditions or medications.

Resource: Alzheimer's Association