5How to Communicate with People Who Have Dementia
Communication can be one of the main challenges for those who care for people with dementia. Below are some useful tips to help you overcome common problems:
– Be patient: Try to practice patience as how you communicate with a dementia patient may change over time when the condition progresses.
– Ask them for important decisions: Some people with dementia, especially in the early stages, can still say their opinions, preferences, and personal choices.
– Avoid assumptions: Since the progression and symptoms of dementia can vary from person to person, do not assume that their communicating capabilities have changed.
– Be simple: Try to use simple and clear questions, sentences, or words. Give them enough time to reply or respond.
– Be positive: Try to be optimistic, respectful, and positive when communicating with people with dementia.
– Avoid distractions: smartphones, televisions, noises, or other things would result in miscommunication. [6]
