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Strategies to Communicate
With Those With Dementia
By: The Coalition of NYS Alzheimer’s Association Chapters
I
t might feel challenging to communicate with people at varying stages
of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Keeping the following
communication strategies in mind at any stage can help ease the task.
Respect and empathy are key
Remember that the essence of the person continues. Respect the person
as the adult he or she is, and adjust your communication based on what
is meaningful to the person today, regardless of the stage.
Join the person’s reality to uncover the source of reactions and
to connect
Keep in mind that behavior is a form of communication, and by seeing the
world through his or her eyes, you can get clues about what the person is
thinking and responding to. This connection also provides soothing and
reassurance for the person with dementia.
Understand and accept what you can and cannot change
You cannot expect the person with the disease to behave as he or
she might have in the past, with a reasonable response. If one of your
communications isn’t getting the desired response, focus on what you
can change in your own behavior or words to alter the situation.
Focus on feelings, not facts
Responding to a person’s feelings first can help avoid resistance,
especially if the facts aren’t adding up.
Try to decode the person’s communications
The emotion behind the words or behavior being expressed is your most
powerful tool when attempting to decode communication and connect
with the person with dementia.
Recognize the effects of your own mood and actions
We all convey our moods through actions and tone of voice. People with
dementia are sensitive to these moods and will often pick up and react
to the feelings, sometimes causing feelings to escalate. Bringing self-
awareness to each encounter can help mitigate conflicts.
Help meet the needs while soothing and calming the person
Provide what you can to meet the person’s needs, remembering to help
the person feel safe and content.
For more specific suggestions on how to directly respond to a person
with dementia, the Alzheimer’s Association offers various trainings for
professional caregivers. Please call the 24-hour Helpline at 800-272-3900
or visit alz.org for more information on training options near you.
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Adviser a publication of LeadingAge New York | Spring 2017