How to Talk with a Loved One with Dementia

Maintaining communication with a loved one or patient who has dementia can be one of the most difficult tasks for a caregiver or family member. Because of the patient’s poor comprehension, environmental disorientation, and linguistic abilities, he or she may choose not to respond, causing both the caregiver and the patient to become increasingly frustrated.

At West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD, we are aware of the many obstacles and issues faced by those who have loved ones with dementia. Our team of personal injury lawyers in Houston is an advocate for aging family members across the city. There are some important factors to keep in mind when trying to talk with someone who suffers from dementia. 

Be Ready to Have Quality Conversations

Prepare for the talk by focusing on being patient, calm, and polite. Remember that, even though your patient’s cognitive abilities have deteriorated, they are still the person you or their family loves and appreciates. Depending on the condition of the patient, the difficulty of having a conversation can vary. However, your attitude can help ensure that every meeting is as relevant and enjoyable as possible.

Create a Comfortable Environment

Setting the right environment is key when meeting with a loved one with dementia. If possible, try to: 

• Remove Distraction. To help your patient or family member focus on conversation, pick a calm, well-lit area.
• Get their Complete Attention. Start your interaction by addressing them by name or softly touching their shoulder or arm.
• Relax Your Body Language. Patients who are unable to communicate may rely significantly on body language, so make sure you project a comfortable, pleasant attitude.
• Maintain Eye Contact. Sit next to or across from them and maintain calm, steady eye contact to keep their attention on you.

Be Clear and Easy to Understand

People living with dementia may have difficulty focusing or comprehending information. Be sure to keep your interactions as basic and straightforward as possible. It could require slowing down or limiting the topics of discussion. However, it will be worth it when you get meaningful replies.

• Speak Calmly, Clearly, and Slowly. Before going on to the next statement, allow the patient time to digest the previous one.
• Use Names instead of Pronouns. To help the patient maintain track of the discussion, refer to persons by their names rather than “he” or “she.”
• Stick to One Topic at a Time. Avoid abruptly changing subjects or introducing new ones without a clear introduction.
• Rephrase, Don’t Repeat. Instead of repeating a question or comment if the patient doesn’t comprehend it, restate it as simply as possible.

Of course, pay attention to nonverbal signals as well. A warm smile and comforting eye contact, as well as proper physical touch, will go a long way toward making your patient feel at ease enough to react. If the patient forgets or makes a mistake, gently correct them or let it go to keep them feeling involved, respected, and valued.

It can be difficult to guide a loved one through dementia. However, with the appropriate care, it may be an opportunity to show compassion and respect to your loved one. 

If you are experiencing problems dealing with an aging family member, contact a Houston personal injury lawyer at West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD today at (713) 840-7200.