Communication and Dementia

Communication allows us to express our thoughts, beliefs, and wishes, and plays an important role in shaping our relationships with others.

Engaging in meaningful interactions is important to maintaining the quality of life of persons with Alzheimer’s diseases and other dementias. However, as dementia progresses, the ability to communicate becomes more and more difficult. By taking their limitations into consideration, it is possible to find alternative ways to interact with the person you are caring for.
 

 

How Dementia Affects Communication Abilities

Everyone with dementia is unique. Changes in communication can vary from person to person. However, there are many types of communication impairments that are often seen throughout the disease. For example:

  • Being unable to find the right words
  • Losing their train of thought
  • May be unable to organize thoughts in a logical order
  • Reverting to speaking in one’s native language
  • Speaking infrequently. Some people may become completely mute
  • Trouble understanding what others are saying

Tips for Effective Communication

In the earlier stages of communication impairment:

  • Be patient and supportive.
  • Don’t interrupt.
  • Give the person time to express themselves.
  • Don’t talk about the person as if they aren’t there.
  • Don’t be condescending. Respect what they are saying.
  • Avoid asking questions which rely on good memory.
  • Communicate simple reminders by using small notes.
  • Limit distractions as much as possible, find a quiet place to talk.
  • Avoid criticizing, correcting, or arguing.
  • Listen with your heart. Look beyond the words to understand what the person is experiencing in the moment.


As communication becomes more difficult:

In addition to the suggestions listed above, some of the following may be helpful in facilitating effective communication as the person’s impairment become more severe.

  • Approach the person from the front.
  • Make eye contact.
  • Identify yourself clearly.
  • Avoid sudden movements which may frighten them.
  • Call the person by their name.
  • Use simple sentences.
  • Ask one question at a time.
  • Ask questions which require a simple yes or no answer (instead of saying “what would you like to have for lunch?” ask “would you like a sandwich?”)
  • Avoid begin too vague (instead of “here it is”, say “here is your cane”).
  • If repeating yourself, use exactly the same words again. Don't rephrase as this can increase confusion.
  • Give visual cues (for example, point to the object you are talking about).
  • Ask the person to point or gesture if they can’t find the right word or expression.
  • Pay attention to your body language and facial expressions. Try a gentle, positive approach.
  • Holding their hand or providing a warm smile can be comforting.