Tips for Interacting with People Living with Dementia

It can be challenging to interact with people living with dementia. This is especially true when you are communicating with a loved one or close friend. The following suggestions can help you make the most of the time you have with each other.

Eliminate distractions. Be aware of things that could potentially distract the person, such as background noises, TV, radio, bright lights, or open windows.

Know their schedule. Make sure you can meet them at a time when they are most open to communicating with others. Also, make sure that you clear your own schedule, so that you are not feeling rushed or impatient when you talk to them.

Know the person’s interests and what brings them happiness. Be sure to mention these things at some point, and to bring them up if you are unsure about what to talk about.

Be prepared. Think through what you are going to talk about. What has the person responded to in the past?

Listen carefully, without interrupting. If you are having trouble understanding the person, look to their body language for clues about what it is that they are trying to communicate. Ask them to repeat what they just said if you still can’t understand them. Follow their emotions. It’s ok to be sad, upset… they have that right.

If the person is angry or distressed, try to understand their problem. Show understanding and allow them to see that you are listening to them. Offer them help if you feel that you are able to help them.

Enunciate clearly and use short words and sentences. Be sure to repeat yourself, or to phrase your question in a ‘yes or no’ manner if they are having trouble understanding you. Do not use open ended questions. When asking a question, use “This or That.” It is ok to offer “or something else” as well. For example: Would you like to go outside or do something else? Remember not all conversation should be questions.

Avoid volatile topics. Know what subjects could possibly upset or anger the person, and be sure to steer clear of those topics.

Make sure that the person does not feel excluded. If there are other people in the room with you, don’t talk to them for too long without including the person with dementia.

Keep a positive stance and indicate goodwill. Try not to be condescending and let the person know that you are there to help them.

Melody Karick, dementia educator and consultant for ForgeWorks, provides dementia training for businesses, churches, municipalities, first responders and families. Her certifications include Certified Dementia Practitioner, Certified Montessori Dementia Care Practitioner, Personal Care Health Administrator, Virtual Dementia Tour Certified Trainer, Positive Approach to Care.

Melody leads Dementia Friendly Lancaster, a group of devoted community members, organizations & faith-based leaders as well as those who have been touched by dementia.

Dementia Friendly Lancaster will host well-known Dementia Educator Teepa Snow on Wednesday, August 21, 2024. To register for the event, visit www.dementiafriendlylancaster.org.