Communicating with someone with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia can be very difficult. Confusion, misunderstanding, and frustration can emerge whether you are a family member, a friend, a caregiver, or the senior with dementia. It takes a lot of patience, understanding, and learned strategies to make all the difference in effective communication. Here are some tips:

 

1) Speak clearly, slowly, and in short sentences. As dementia progresses, ask questions with yes or no responses. Break down requests into simple, easier-to-understand steps. 

 

2)  Always remain calm, using a positive tone of voice. Be aware of your nonverbal cues, too, ensuring you keep your body language relaxed. 

 

3) Keep you distance in mind. If either of you are getting frustrated, take time and step away. 

 

4) Use eye contact when communicating and call them by their name.

 

5) Always approach them from the front and speak to them at eye level.

 

6) Encourage them to join in conversations. Don't exclude them from conversations or speak as if they are not present. 

 

Your strategies for communicating should evolve as the disease progresses. Nonverbal communication, the gentle touch of your hand, a soothing smile, can all become comforting and essential to successful communication. 

 

 

Thank you,