Dementia Communication Tips: Simple Ways to Connect

Talking with someone who has dementia can feel like walking a tightrope. You want to be heard, but you also don’t want to add stress. The good news? Small changes in how you speak and listen make a big difference. Below are practical, no‑nonsense tips you can start using right now.

Basic Principles for Clear Communication

Speak slowly and pause. Give the person time to process each sentence. A short pause after a question lets them form an answer without feeling rushed.

Use short, simple sentences. Keep ideas to one thought per sentence. Instead of “Would you like to go for a walk in the garden later this afternoon?” try “Do you want to walk outside?”

Maintain eye contact. Look at their face, not at a phone or TV. Eye contact signals you’re paying attention and helps them focus on your words.

Limit background noise. Turn off the TV, radio, or any loud appliances while you talk. A quiet environment reduces confusion.

Validate feelings. If they seem upset, say something like, “I can see this is hard for you.” You don’t have to correct every mistake; acknowledging emotions builds trust.

Practical Techniques to Use Every Day

Ask yes/no or choice questions. Instead of open‑ended “What do you want to eat?” try “Do you want soup or a sandwich?” This narrows options and makes it easier to answer.

Use visual cues. Show a picture of the activity you’re suggesting, point to a clock for time, or hand them a written list. Visuals reinforce what you’re saying.

Repeat key information. If you need them to remember a medication time, say it twice: “Your pill is at 8 am. That’s 8 am, right after breakfast.”

Touch gently. A reassuring hand on the shoulder can calm nerves and signal you’re there to help. Always ask first if they’re comfortable with touch.

Stay calm and patient. Your tone sets the mood. If you feel frustrated, take a breath and try again. A calm voice keeps the conversation safe.

Use name and pronouns correctly. Call them by their preferred name and use “you” instead of “they” when talking about them. It personalizes the chat and avoids confusion.

Summarize to check understanding. After a few sentences, say, “So, we’re going to the park at 2 pm, right?” This lets you see if they followed along.

These tips aren’t a checklist you have to master overnight. Pick one or two that feel natural, practice them, and add more as you go. Over time, you’ll notice fewer misunderstandings and more moments of connection.

Remember, the goal isn’t to fix dementia; it’s to keep the conversation flowing and the relationship strong. With a little patience and the right approach, you can turn tricky moments into chances for genuine connection.