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Be a Good Listener
When taking care of a loved one suffering from dementia it is important to be patient and supportive. At times communication between a caregiver and a loved one suffering from dementia can be stressful and frustrating. Here are some important caregiver tips on how to listen to your loved one suffering from dementia.- Be patient and supportive
- Show your interest
- Offer comfort and reassurance
- Avoid criticizing or correcting
- Don't argue
- Offer a guess of what they may be talking about if they are unclear
- Focus on feelings not facts
- Limit your distractions
- Encourage them to communicate non-verbally
Being a Better Communicator
- Identify yourself
- Address the person by name
- Use short, simple and familiar words and sentences
- Talk more slowly and clearly
- Give one step directions
- Don't question recent memory
- Ask one question at a time, preferably about a past event
- Repeat information or questions
- Turn questions into answers
- Avoid literal expressions
- Make negatives more positive
- Don't reason, argue, or confront
- Never remind them that they forgot
- Don't take anything they say personally
Understanding Difficult Behaviors
Alzheimer's disease can cause a person to act different or be unpredictable. It is important to remember that the person is not acting this way on purpose. Some individuals with Alzheimer's become anxious or aggressiveness, others repeat certain questions or gestures. These changes can sometimes lead to frustration and tension, particularly between the person with Alzheimer's and the caregiver.
Changes in Behavior May be Caused by:
- Physical discomfort
- Over-stimulation
- Unfamiliar surroundings
- Complicated tasks
- Frustrating interactions
Whatever the cause, be sure to identify the specific challenges and consider specific solutions.
Learn more about Alzheimer's and Dementia in our Elder Health Guides section by reading Alzheimer's Disease: An Overview.
Back to Caregiver Tips for more tips!
