Tips on how to Communicate with Someone Living with Dementia

Tips on how to Communicate with Someone Living with Dementia

Do you have difficulty communicating with a loved one who is living with dementia?

Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia gradually damage brain cells, leading to memory loss, difficulty understanding and using language (a condition known as aphasia), and other cognitive challenges. These changes can make communication frustrating for both the person with dementia and their caregivers. Learning new ways to connect—including non-verbal communication—can help reduce misunderstandings and maintain a strong, positive relationship.

How Dementia Affects Communication

Dementia affects each person differently, but common language-related challenges include:

• Difficulty finding the right words
• Using the wrong words or substituting unrelated ones
• Repeating words, phrases, or stories
• Struggling to organize words into sentences
• Trouble understanding others
• Creating new words to replace forgotten ones
• Describing objects instead of naming them
• Losing their train of thought easily
• Using swear words or inappropriate language
• Reverting to their first language
• Speaking less frequently than before
• Relying on gestures instead of speech

Tips for Verbal Communication

To make communication smoother and more effective, try these strategies:

• Speak slowly and clearly without being patronizing.
• Use a positive, calm, and respectful tone.
• Keep sentences short and simple.
• Choose a quiet, distraction-free setting.
• Give your full attention when speaking with them.
• Ask yes/no questions rather than open-ended ones.
• Give them time to respond—don’t rush them.
• Repeat back what you heard to confirm understanding.
• Focus on one topic at a time.
• Break down instructions into small, easy-to-follow steps.
• Use specific names instead of pronouns like “he” or “it.”
• Avoid correcting or criticizing. Instead, go with the flow of conversation.

Non-Verbal Ways to Communicate

Since verbal communication can become increasingly difficult, incorporating non-verbal methods can make a big difference. Try these approaches:

• Approach your loved one from the front to avoid startling them.
• Make and maintain eye contact to show you are engaged.
• Use facial expressions and gestures to convey emotions and meaning.
• Watch their body language for clues about their needs and feelings.
• Be mindful of your actions. Crossed arms or turning away may signal disapproval.
• Demonstrate actions instead of just describing them.
• Use touch (if they’re comfortable with it) to offer reassurance, such as a gentle hand on their arm.
• Write things down if reading helps them understand better.

Adapting to Good and Bad Days

Dementia symptoms fluctuate, and your loved one may have better communication abilities on some days than others. Factors like fatigue, stress, or even the time of day can influence their ability to engage. Patience and a positive attitude can help create a more supportive and comforting environment.

For more information and additional resources on dementia care and communication strategies, visit the Alzheimer Society of Canada.