How do you communicate with people with dementia?

Answer 1

Dealing with Dementia It really depends on the stage, and type, of dementia. Stability and routine would probably be things that are important during all stages of dementia. Love, gentleness, reminders of day and time and person, calming activities, and patience.

They need much extra time for moving and talking. Move more slowly and talk in more simple language to give them the extra "processing" time they need. Sometimes my mother would go a good 30 seconds or more before responding to a question, often having been already interrupted by someone else speaking before she was able to formulate and state the answer.

Physical touch is important. Hold their hand, pat them on the arm, kiss their cheeks. Pet therapy is very good for them, as is Adult Day Care where activities are structured, meals are provided, and they are kept safe and mentally stimulated.

Encouraging and allowing the person to do as much as possible for themselves for as long as possible is important for many reasons. Dignity is an important one.

Your knowing when to get help is important too. Many couples vows never to let each other end up in a care facility. But, sometimes a person reaches a level of dementia that requires 24-hour supervision, due to health and safety concerns for all parties involved. In that case, do research, get referrals and references, and make drop-in visits to various facilities to find the right environment for your loved one, if home care is out of the question. Don't be afraid to visit facilities any time of the day or night, and show up unannounced. It is a good way to get a feel for the way things really are done when "guests" are not expected.

There is an excellent book, The 36 Hour Day. See the related question below for more information about this book. It helped me in seven years of caring for my mother at home with both physical illness and dementia. Although I am an RN, the practical help this book gave was invaluable. It is easily understood by people of varying degrees of prior education about elder care and dementia.

(See Related question.)

Answer 2

Person's with dementia do need much support, probably some professional help or nursing assitance. Additionally, older persons, including those with dementia, need physical exercise, as well as to keep an active mind, before it goes too far. Television is not of benefit to many older persons, or those with dementia, because it puts the mind in a state of inactivity and passivity, that might contribute to the progression of dementia. TV is physically incapacitating and emotionally blunting.

Answer 3

You will need to have PATIENCE and be very understandingdo not leave a person with dementia all by him/herself

Answer 4

Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, it will take patience and understanding of this your loved ones condition.