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Overview
Communicating with someone living with dementia can become challenging as it progresses. Everyone experiences the diagnosis differently, so trying different techniques may be helpful until you find one that works.
Some tips that may be useful:
- Make eye contact and stay still to encourage focus.
- Reduce distractions and make sure your environment is quiet.
- Stay calm and patient throughout discussions.
- Keep open and welcoming body language, don’t cross your arms or turn away.
- Pay attention to their body language and respect personal space.
- Try to incorporate non-verbal cues like nodding or pointing.
- Try to use yes or no questions when applicable.
More information
Potential scenarios
If they say something inaccurate
If the person living with dementia makes comments that are wrong or tells stories that never happened, you need to ask yourself, is this worth correcting? Correcting every little mistake will be tiresome and lead to a burnt-out caregiver. In these scenarios, consider simply nodding your head and smiling or quietly agreeing before redirecting the focus elsewhere.
Responding to accusations that are not true
While it may be inaccurate, try to avoid confrontations and taking offense.
If you recognize a pattern, like accusations of a stolen wallet, place it in an easy to remember spot so you can show them the wallet is safe. Redirecting the conversation to a different topic can also be a good approach.
Responding when someone with dementia wants to go home from long-term care
It’s important to validate their feelings about their new environment and avoid contradicting them. Keep a positive attitude and bring their attention to things they like about the home or redirect them to a different activity.
What to do when they experience hallucinations
When someone with dementia is hallucinating, they will see, hear, smell, taste or feel something that isn’t there. Ask the person to describe what they are experiencing and offer reassurances that they are safe.
Check with their doctor or nurse practitioner as hallucinations may be caused by an underlying issue.
Alzheimers.ca has some tips for confronting hallucinations.
Helping someone with repetitive behaviour
Repetition is common for people living with dementia and you may notice the individual “gets stuck” on a topic. While it can be frustrating, try to stay patient and provide consistent answers.
Consider the possibility of an underlying issue. If they repeatedly ask about dinner, they might be hungry and need a snack to tide them over until the meal. Otherwise, distracting the individual is a common way to lead the conversation elsewhere.
What to do when they resist daily tasks like bathing
Try to approach the situation with patience even though it can be very frustrating for caregivers. Refusal can be caused by a variety of triggers and recognizing and addressing the root issue will be the key to a smoother caregiving experience.
Addressing angry outbursts or rude language
Avoid meeting the confrontation head on and try to keep your voice and body language calm. Keeping a consistent routine can help alleviate moments of anger or frustration.
If the behaviour is consistent, consider speaking with their doctor or nurse practitioner.
Other tips and resources for communicating with someone living with dementia