Alzheimer’s and other Dementia Communication Skills

Experts provide the following tips for communication with a person who has Alzheimer’s. The tips may or may not apply to an individual depending on the severity of the client’s Alzheimer’s:

• Use familiar words and short, simple sentences.
• Look directly at the person when talking to him or her.
• Speak slowly.
• Be patient – give the person time to respond.
• Ask simple questions, one at a time.
• Give directions simply, one at a time.
• Repeat the question exactly the same way
• Do not argue, confront, or correct.
• Limit distractions – simplify the surroundings.
• Don’t test the person’s memory by saying, “Don’t you remember?” It frustrates them.
• Use the person’s name rather than referring to “your wife.”
• If necessary, try again later.
• Medications should be stored in a locked cabinet to prevent from overtaking medication.
• Outings should be limited to familiar places such as local restaurants and hairdressers.
• Caregivers should maintain the same daily routine/schedule with the person as this will minimize confusion.
• Disruption in sleep patterns are common in individuals with dementia and the following should be considered:
  • Balance stimulation and activities with periods of rest during the day.
  • Reduce fluids and drinks that contain sugar and caffeine.
  • Develop a set of evening routine starting with quiet time prior to bedtime.
  • Place soft music to aid relaxation.
• If the person still can’t sleep or refuses to sleep, caregivers could try:
  • Listening to classical music or natural sounds
  • Playing cards or dominos
  • Looking at memory books/albums
• To help stimulate the person during the day so that he/she is not sleeping as much, the caregivers could try the following:
  • Look at photo albums – this could bring back memories of vacations and family members.
  • Old books are excellent reminiscing tools.
  • History books with pictures can trigger memories.
  • Go outside for a walk.
  • Listen to music.

If your loved one was to go to an ALF or Memory Unit of an ALF, I recommend that one of the current caregivers attend him/her in the facility for awhile everyday for about 6 to 8 hours so that he/she has someone with whom he/she is familiarized to look to while adjusting. I also recommend hiring a service that Medicare pays for to help with the transition of the person moving to ALF.