Communication can be difficult for people with Alzheimer’s and related dementias because they have trouble remembering things. In some forms of dementia, people have trouble finding the right words or have difficulty speaking. You may feel frustrated or impatient, but it’s important to understand that the disease is causing the change in communication skills. Here are a few things you can do to help make communication easier:
- Reassure the person and speak calmly.
- Listen to his or her concerns and frustrations. Try to show that you understand.
- Keep well-loved objects and photographs around the house to help the person feel more secure.
- Remind the person who you are if he or she doesn’t remember.
- Encourage two-way conversation for as long as possible.
Check out the Alzheimers.gov website for more tips on managing changes in communication for people with dementia. This information is also available in Spanish.
