Communication
- Good communication skills can greatly help in handling difficult behavior
from your loved one.
- Minimize distractions and noise to help the person focus on what you’re saying.
- Using a calm and gentle tone of voice, ask simple, answerable questions in a positive
way.
Next Step
Routines and other daily activities can help keep your loved one engaged and content.
Learn more
A few simple tips can help you begin to communicate better with a loved one suffering
from dementia. Solid communication skills can make your caregiving role less stressful
and may help you build a stronger relationship with your loved one.
It may sound obvious, but one of the most important things to remember is to actually
talk to your loved one. Tell him or her what you’re doing and why.
Also, let him
or her provide input or make decisions as much as possible.
Listening to your loved one will require patience. Allow enough time to respond.
If the person is struggling to find a word, try to gently provide it. People with
dementia often feel unsure of themselves. Respond with both verbal and physical
affection and reassurance. Sometimes a touch such as a hug or hand-squeeze can convey
more than words.
Next Step: Learn how daily activities can help keep your
loved one engaged and content.
