​ Learn How to Communicate Easier With Someone Who Has Alzheimer's or Dementia
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Learn How to Communicate Easier With Someone Who Has Alzheimer's or Dementia

Learn How to Communicate Easier With Someone Who Has Alzheimer's or Dementia

Individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia have trouble communicating. This is primarily because they have trouble remembering things, such as the right words to express themselves, or they may forget what they want to say. Sometimes, this can become frustration or impatience as they struggle to say what they want but can’t quite get there. 

If your loved one or an older adult you know has communication challenges related to Alzheimer’s or dementia, there are some ways you can help. With patience, understanding, and the right approach, you can have meaningful and productive interactions. 

At Joyful Companions, we understand these challenges and want to share effective ways to enhance communication and build connections with individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia.  

Communication Challenges Associated With Alzheimer’s & Dementia

Alzheimer’s and dementia can affect communication for the individual in several ways. 

Some of these challenges include: 

  • Remembering the right word they want to use

  • Understanding or remembering the meaning of a word

  • Maintaining attention during long conversations

  • Organizing words and sentences logically

  • Maintaining their train of thought while speaking

  • Inability to block out background noises

  • Frustration from not being able to communicate

  • Sensitivity to the tone and loudness of voices

As you can imagine, these challenges make expressing oneself difficult and frustrating. Individuals with Alzheimer's or dementia may lash out or negatively express their frustration when faced with these challenges. 

That’s why learning to communicate effectively with someone who has memory loss is important to avoid frustration. 

How To Communicate With Someone Who Has Memory Loss

With practice and patience, it is possible to communicate with a loved one or older adult with memory loss without it turning into a frustrating situation. 

Let’s look at ways to adjust your communication style to help with these communication challenges. 

Focus On Being Calm & Supportive

When you need to have a conversation with someone who has memory loss, choose a quiet and calm location free from distractions. While speaking, say their name, speak at eye level, and maintain gentle eye contact. 

Always use a warm and reassuring tone of voice that they will understand is calm. While speaking with someone who has Alzheimer’s or Dementia, stay aware of your tone, volume, how you look at the person, and body language.

Avoid using “baby talk” or “baby voice.”

A soft touch on the hand or shoulder can also provide comfort and reassurance for a senior with memory loss unless they are uncomfortable with physical touch. Do not cross boundaries, and do not use physical touch if you are unsure of boundaries.

Stick to Clear & Simple Language

While speaking, try to speak slowly and clearly using short sentences. Avoid complex and open-ended questions. Give them simple choices to choose between, as open-ended questions may be stressful or confusing. 

Give them extra time to process and respond to your question. If they struggle to find the right words, gently offer suggestions instead of correcting them. 

You should also try to encourage two-way conversations as much as possible. Do not answer for them or make assumptions about what they might say. 

Stay open to their concerns and communication, even if they are hard to understand. 

Practice Patience & Empathy

Patience and empathy can go a long way, and these skills may take intentional practice to prioritize. Taking time to reflect on the situation can help you move from frustration to compassion. 

Remember, your loved one did not ask for Alzheimer’s or dementia, and they may feel as frustrated as you when they cannot make their needs known. Avoid arguing or correcting them if they say something inaccurate. If they get frustrated, redirect the conversation to something familiar and positive. 

If an angry outburst occurs, try other distraction strategies, such as walking outside or offering a snack. If you become frustrated, take time for yourself to calm down. 

Validating their feelings is also important. Saying things like “I understand” or “That sounds nice” helps them feel heard and understood. 

You can also use nonverbal cues like nodding and smiling to help reassure them. 

Use Visual Aids & Gestures

If needed, you can use visual aids and gestures to help. Point to pictures or objects to reinforce meanings. 

Demonstrate actions instead of just explaining, such as showing a cup when asking if they want a drink. If they have difficulty understanding, try rephrasing instead of repeating the same words. 

You can also use music, photos, and familiar objects that can trigger positive memories and engagement. 

Adapt Communication Styles as Needs Change

As dementia or Alzheimer’s progresses, nonverbal communication, such as touch and facial expressions, becomes more important. If your loved one is struggling with words, focus on emotional connections rather than specific details. 

Offer reassurances, often using phrases such as “I’m here for you” or “You’re safe” to provide comfort. Smiling, holding hands, or sharing a favorite song can speak louder than words.

Support Someone Who Has Memory Loss With a Joyful Companion in Minnesota 

Communication and companion care can help your loved one or senior with Alzheimer’s or dementia maintain their cognitive function. 

If you are not available to stay with an older adult with memory loss 24/7, put your trust in a non-medical companion from Joyful Companions. Our faith-based team of companions strives to provide the best companion care to ensure safety, support, and compassionate care. 


 

For help supporting a senior with memory loss, call Joyful Companions at 763-5474-0401 or request a free in-home consultation online.