Tips For Communicating With People Who Have Dementia

Can you imagine waking up in a foreign country, surrounded by strangers, unable to understand their language? This is what it can feel like, even in familiar surroundings, for someone who has dementia. That is a scary thought, isn’t it? Imagine the confusion, and fear, that must cause to our loved ones who suffer.  Below we will discuss our tips for communicating with people who have Dementia. 

Would you trust a stranger coming towards you, who spoke a language you didn’t understand? Keeping this in mind, there are some simple tactics we can use to help our loved ones to feel safer, and more trusting of our intentions. 

First, always approach your loved one from the front. Never come up behind them or catch them off guard. This will start things out on the wrong foot, and cause unnecessary distress. Do your best to get down to their level. If they are in bed, pull up a chair. If they’re in a wheelchair, stoop down so that they can see your face. 

Next, always be aware of your own body language, facial expression, and tone. Move slowly, smile, and speak softly. This lets your loved one know, even if they don’t understand your words, that you come in peace with friendly intentions. This will put them at ease, and help to build trust. 

Finally, never touch your loved one who has dementia, without first explaining what you are about to do. Use gestures as you speak. For instance, point to the bathroom, or even show them their toothbrush, while asking if they are ready to go brush their teeth. Point to your watch, and pretend to take a bite of something, when letting them know it’s time to go eat. 

Remember these simple tactics as you care for your loved one from day-to-day. Following these steps can make all the difference in your loved one’s experience, turning what may have been a traumatic time for them into a success.