Dos and don’ts for communicating with dementia patients

Caring for somebody with dementia comes with many challenges. Monitoring progress through the stages of dementia can also be difficult. Communication is commonly particularly difficult because individuals with dementia can turn out to be frustrated by changes in memory and difficulty speaking and understanding, especially within the later stages of the disease.

Whether you provide care as an expert or family caregiver, there are several strategies to enable you to navigate these waters and communicate more effectively, relieving stress for each the person with dementia and yourself. As a family nurse practitioner, many individuals come to me for advice and guidance when caring for a loved one with dementia. Here are some do’s and don’ts for communicating with dementia patients I’ve encountered.

Tips for communicating with patients with dementia

• Speak clearly.
• Keep Calm; avoid raising your voice.
• Use easy words and short sentences.
• Speak at a slow pace.
• Be talkative; avoid many questions.
• Be respectful.
• Position yourself close, at eye level, and ensure adequate lighting.
• Stay open and relaxed.
• Use clues corresponding to pictures or objects to assist the person understand what you’re talking about.

What to avoid when communicating with dementia patients

• Don’t finish an individual’s sentences.
• Avoid saying, “Do you remember when” or asking, “Do you remember?” Use the statement “I remember when” and the person may or may not take part, but they’ll win” Don’t feel embarrassed in the event that they don’t remember.
• Avoid frustration with repetitive questions. Take a break if obligatory.
• Don’t remind them of the death of a loved one. You can attempt to encourage them to let you know concerning the person in the event that they ask.
• Avoid asking questions on this person or their past. Instead, give attention to the current and tell them about your day to stimulate conversation.
• Don’t ask the person in the event that they recognize you or anyone else. When greeting them, tell them who you’re and what your relationship with them is.

Alzheimer’s Association. (2023). Communication and Alzheimer’s disease. https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/communication

Alzheimer’s Society. (2023, January 11). What to not say to someone with dementia. https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/language-dementia-what-not-to-say

National Institute on Aging. (2017, May 17). Alzheimer’s disease care: changes in communication skills. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-changes-behavior-and-lecommunications/alzheimers-caregiving-changes-communications