Communicating with someone with dementia
Here are a few tips on how to effectively communicate with someone who has moderate to severe dementia.
It’s hard to live with someone that has dementia. It can be difficult not to become upset with the disturbed communication and the emotions that the person will be feeling which may not be relevant to the reality. It can make family and caregivers feel stressed, anxious, irritated and utterly helpless. Everyone’s experience of the disease is different but repeating stories, not being able to think of the right words, losing track of thoughts, losing their way or forgetting where the rooms around them are situated, speaking less or speaking in another language are not uncommon.
Here are a few tips on how to effectively communicate with someone who has moderate to severe dementia.
1. Dementia worsens progressively. People with dementia find it difficult to make sense of others and therefore communicating effectively. It is crucial to show empathy, patience and understanding.
2. Avoid distractions and noise. Speak in a normal tone of voice at a normal volume. In order to be able to share moments that matter, a quiet environment will enable the person with dementia to focus their mental energy and assist them in staying calm.
3. Refer to people by their names. For example: “Hi Dad. It’s me, Louise” rather than “Hi. It’s me” or assuming that they already know the names of the people around them.
4. Keep conversation simple. Over complicating it by going off at tangents will only upset them because they will rapidly become confused and tired. Body language is important. Stay calm and smile. Position yourself where the person can see you as clearly as possible, sitting rather than standing over them. When dementia becomes very advanced, nonverbal communication may be the only option available. How you say something is often more important than what you say.
5. It is very likely that your loved one will be ‘stuck in the past’ during conversation; a scenario from their days as a youngster, or something that happened last week. They are unaware of the time difference at that moment so don’t try to correct them. Instead, listen, don’t argue.
6. Understand there will be good days and bad days. Moments when they have clarity and moments when their mind is muddied. Make the most of ‘good’ days and find ways to adapt on ‘bad’ ones.
7. Do not talk about your loved one like they are not in the room. Always assume he or she can understand what you are saying and include the person in conversations with others.
For more advice and information on dementia visit www.dementiauk.org
An industry-leading, dementia care home in Rugby is hosting a Let’s Talk Dementia event where carers of those living with dementia can seek practical advice, coping strategies and tips to support their loved ones during the festive period.
The free event will take place at Anya Court, 286 Dunchurch Road, Rugby CV22 6JA on Thursday 14th December at 2:30pm and will be supported by expert speakers.
This includes the care home’s Researcher in Residence, Dr Isabelle Latham, PHD who is an Honorary Senior Research Fellow for the Association for Dementia Studies at the University of Worcester. She will also be supported by Coventry and Rugby GP Alliance, Admiral Nurse Team Lead and Dementia Specialist Nurse, Victoria McGrath.
Customer Relationship Manager at Anya Court Care Home, Leasa Marriott said: “We know this time of year can be difficult, especially if you are caring for a loved one living with dementia. The Let’s Talk Dementia event is designed to equip you with helpful advice, coping strategies and tips in a relaxed, friendly setting so you can support your loved one with their dementia journey.”
There will also be an opportunity at the event to ask questions and meet the home’s dedicated dementia team.
If you have any queries about this event or would like to register your interest in attending, please contact Leasa on 01788 811976 or email leasa.marriott@hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk
“Anya Court, 286 Dunchurch Road, Rugby CV22 6JA are running a ‘Let’s Talk Dementia’ event on Thursday 14th December at 2:30pm and will be supported by expert speakers.”