How to stay connected: Supporting friends and family dealing with Dementia

Regular contact can make a meaningful difference

Many people would like to support friends and family dealing with Dementia, but often feel uncertain about saying or doing the right thing. However, staying in connected can significantly help, as both Carers and the Person with Dementia often experience loneliness and isolation. Regular contact can make a meaningful difference in their lives.  

Here are some ways to support a loved one with dementia when you don't know what to say. The following tips help the Person with Dementia to maintain their quality of life, dignity and self-esteem. It can also help them maintain relationships and keep a sense of self.

• Communicate clearly

Speak slowly and clearly, using short sentences and simple words. Avoid raising your voice or speaking sharply. 

·         Ask only one question at a time

When speaking to someone with Dementia, try to ask only one question at a time. This helps prevent confusion and makes it easier for them to follow the conversation.

• Be patient and respectful

Treat the person with respect and patience and a caring attitude, and don't talk to them as if they were a child. 

• Use active listening and don’t interrupt

Give the person time to speak, and try to understand the meaning behind what they say. Try to understand the underlying feeling they are communicating.

• Include them and give them your full attention

Include the person in conversations with others, and don't speak as if they aren't there. Stop what you are doing and minimize distractions.

• Use body language

Body language, such as facial expressions, gestures, and eye contact, can help the person communicate. 

• Avoid arguing

Try not to get into arguments about what the person says, even if you think they're mistaken. 

• Create a memory book

A memory book can help the person remember special times and music, reminiscence and a ‘this is your life’ book can be alternative means of communication. 

• Encourage nonverbal communication

If the person has difficulty speaking, encourage them to communicate using nonverbal methods. 

• Ask yes or no questions

Avoid asking too many questions, and instead consider asking questions that only need a "yes" or "no" answer. 

• Offer clear instructions

Offer clear, step-by-step instructions for tasks. 

• Use visual cues

Use visual cues to help the person. 

• Demonstrate tasks

Demonstrate a task to encourage participation.