Quality time, exciting activities, and engaging conversations with the people we love are core to our human experience. But when you have a loved one who has dementia, simply communicating with them can be challenging.
Dementia is a cognitive condition that affects millions of people around the world. If your loved one is one of these people, there are a few things to consider when conversing with them. It’s best to keep things simple, avoid open-ended questions, use non-verbal cues, and of course, be patient. Whether you’re an experienced caregiver or have just heard of a loved one’s diagnosis, take the time to understand how your loved one experiences communication.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is not a single disease. Rather, it’s a general term that describes a group of symptoms related to changes in cognitive decline and behavior. There are several types of dementia, including:
- Alzheimer’s disease: This is the most common type of dementia, making up 60-80% of dementia cases.
- Vascular dementia: Caused by problems with blood flow in the brain, vascular dementia on its own accounts for 5-10% of dementia cases, but it’s often part of mixed dementia.
- Dementia with Lewy bodies: This type of dementia is caused by brain abnormalities called Lewy bodies.
- Mixed dementia: When there is more than one cause for dementia symptoms, the disease is called mixed dementia.
How Dementia Affects Communication
Dementia affects a wide range of cognitive abilities, including communication. For example, someone with Alzheimer’s may:
- Have trouble coming up with the right word
- Struggle with focus and be easily distracted
- Lose their train of thought
- Have trouble organizing or structuring their sentences
- Reverting to their first language even if they’re fluent in their second language
Communication Strategies for Conversations With Loved Ones
Remember that communication isn’t restricted to exchanging words; it’s about making a connection.
Everyone experiences dementia differently, so take the time to get to know your loved one’s personal traits. Dementia is also progressive, so you may need to adjust your strategies over time. Learning to effectively communicate with them can be a long-term journey, but it can also be a rewarding one.
Be Aware of Your Loved One’s Stage
Your loved one will have different needs at each stage of dementia. For example, people with early-stage Alzheimer’s are generally able to carry on their daily activities, but they may repeat information or have trouble coming up with the right word. It’s important to be patient, address them directly, and avoid making assumptions about their abilities.
People with late-stage Alzheimer’s may rely more on nonverbal communication. Try using gestures and sounds and pay attention to the emotion behind what they’re saying (or gesturing). Again, don’t talk down to a person with dementia or treat them like they’re not there.
Avoid Open-Ended Questions
Keep language short and simple when communicating with someone who has dementia. This will make it easier for them to digest the information. If you need to ask questions, avoid open-ended ones. For example, instead of asking them what they would like to watch on T.V., give them specific channels to choose from.
Try Non-Verbal Communication
You can use touch to help guide someone during an activity, or simply hold their hand during a conversation. As people’s verbal abilities decline, pay attention to body language and emotional cues.
Find a Calm Environment
Try to minimize distractions if you want a quality conversation with someone who has dementia. Find a quiet and private space to talk. Memory care communities like Bluegrass Senior Living often include lounge spaces and outdoor courtyards that are peaceful environments.
Don’t Talk Down
Never use babytalk when speaking to someone with dementia. Address the person directly, not their caregiver, and never treat them like they’re not in the room. Remember: seniors with dementia are still adults. They’ve lived full lives and have had rich experiences. It’s important to honor their dignity.
Exercise Patience
Finally, patience is truly a virtue when it comes to interacting with a loved one who have dementia. Be prepared that things may not always go smoothly. Also, remember to take care of yourself. Caregiver burnout is a real and valid experience, and it’s okay to take a break or ask for support.
Memory Care
A memory care community can help by having experienced professionals assist residents with day-to-day care in a supportive environment. This can alleviate stress for caregivers and their loved ones.
With a core philosophy based on love, Bluegrass Way Senior Living strives to offer a secure and nurturing environment for older adults with memory conditions. Residents can benefit from staff who are trained to support those with memory conditions, dining services, 24-hour security and emergency systems, and engaging activities.
Want to learn more about memory care? Visit Bluegrass Way Senior Living in person by scheduling a tour today.
