How To Improve Communication With Dementia Patients

One of the most frustrating things about dementia is the way that it erodes someones ability to have even the simplest of conversations. As every day words become hard to find, both dementia patients and their carers can struggle to discuss activities that most of us take for granted.

The following communication advice is gathered from professionals who work with Dementia patients on a daily basis.

 

TIPS FOR COMMUNICATION WITH DEMENTIA PATIENTS

 

1. Stay calm. Probably one of the most difficult pieces of advice to follow, but stress can actually impair memory further making it even harder for Dementia patients to express themselves. In this situation, the carer needs to remain a calm influence.
2. Be patient. Jumping to conclusions, or putting words in someone’s mouth can often lead not just to misunderstandings but further frustration for someone with Dementia. Give them a chance to find the word they need without forcing one on them. They may not always use the right word, but it will only cause more problems in the long run if you thwart their attempts to exercise their memory.
3. Use prompts. This is where our packs of object labels, as well as our Dementia Communication App can come in handy, providing visual clues and photos to match specific words. If you wish to strike up a conversation, use topics that they are familiar with and remember well, such as their wedding or time spent on holiday.
4. Be clear. Let’s turn the tables for a second: are you as the carer being clear and easy to understand? Are you speaking slowly and loudly enough to be heard well? Are you asking questions in a logical and straightforward manner? Communication issues arise in all social situations, not just with dementia patients, so it’s important to make sure that you aren’t the cause of a lack of understanding.
5. Don’t be dismissive. Dementia sufferers can display behaviours that are irrational, for example fixation on something irrelevant or a high level of fear or anxiety about something. While it may not make sense to you, it is important to acknowledge their feelings of anxiety rather than ignoring or belittling them.
6. Be aware of other stimuli. Lots of noise, a loud TV, activity outside – these can all be distractions that fight for attention in a mind that is already struggling to focus. Be aware of anything that might be competing with you for their attention when you try to communicate with someone who has Dementia.

Overall, remember that the person with Dementia is not the same person that they were before symptoms began. If you are caring for a close relative this can make communication even more difficult, as you are so used to interacting with them in a different way. Your relationship and interaction is going to change as their Dementia progresses.

Amy Childs, a recreational therapist that specialises in working with Dementia patients and their carers stresses the importance of accepting that this change can be a loss, and a burden, and says that carers need to allow themselves to feel the grief that may come with the loss of a close relationship. Making time for yourself to deal with your own emotions will help you to be calmer and less stressed when dealing with the person you are caring for.

If you have tips for improving communication with a Dementia sufferer, please share them in the comments below.