How to Communicate with Dementia Patients — Successfully

Healthcare providers and caregivers are often challenged when dealing with elderly patients. Those with dementia present a specific set of challenges for providers. Many have lost the ability to communicate well. Care providers must follow some key steps in order to successfully communicate with a dementia patient.

Instructions

• 1

  Shut off TV and other outside noises.

  Remove background noises. The sounds of a television or a crowded event are potentially confusing to a senior with dementia. Additionally, many elderly patients also suffer from hearing loss. For effective communication, allow the patient to only have to focus on one sound. Keep the environment quiet. If a certain sound or piece of music keeps him in a good mood, play it.

• 2

  Converse in short, simple speech.

  Keep speech simple. A conversation that is long and drawn out will confuse a dementia patient. Speech in short, succinct sentences that can be easily processed. "Please sit down." "Don't go outside." "Are you ready to eat?" These are all simple phrases for a dementia patient. Once the request is made, allow her time to respond. Being impatient for a response will annoy and confuse the patient. Keep your voice at a low pitch and slow pace while communicating.

• 3

  Direct eye contact and light touches help dementia patients to understand.

  Interact physically with the dementia patient. Hold his hand gently and look into his eyes. The tone of speech is crucial when communicating with a dementia patient. Don't approach the patient from behind while attempting to communicate. The dementia patient must know beyond a shadow of a doubt to whom the speaker is speaking.

• 4

  Avoid arguing with a dementia patient. Contradicting them will not bring positive results. If she remembers an event incorrectly, gently remind her of the correct chain of events or other details. Sometimes it is counter-productive to change the patient's perception of the events. A calm environment is key to communicating with a dementia patient. When the frustration of communicating with a dementia patient is high, ask for help and take a break.

• 5

  Use the dementia patient's native tongue. If working with a dementia patient that is not a family member, determine his first language. This often helps the patient to recall the meaning of places and things. If the care provider doesn't speak his native tongue, it is helpful to find someone who does or learn to speak a few simple requests.