How to Communicate Effectively with Someone Receiving Alzheimer’s Care

Alzheimer’s is a condition that affects an estimated 7.2 million adults. It requires specialized care. Caregivers must adapt communication techniques and strategies as the disease progressively impairs the individual’s ability to understand and express themselves.

This article will provide helpful tips.

What is Alzheimer’s?

Named for Dr. Alois Alzheimer, the doctor who first identified the disease, Alzheimer’s is a condition characterized by memory loss that worsens over time, eventually reducing a person’s ability to carry on a conversation or respond to their environment.

Although it is typical for people to experience impaired memory as they get older, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. In fact, it shortens life spans, with most people living four to eight years after a diagnosis, although some live up to 20 years.

Alzheimer’s differs from other kinds of dementia in that it specifically involves abnormal protein deposits in the brain. It also starts with memory loss before spreading to other brain functions. Other dementia conditions involve different symptoms and pathways, and affect the brain in other ways.

How Does Alzheimer’s Affect Communication?

Early on, you may notice that a person with Alzheimer’s has communication difficulties that impact how they speak and interact. They may present the following symptoms.

• Difficulty finding the right words
• Following patterns by using words repeatedly when they talk
• Describing objects rather than calling them by their name
• Easily losing train of thought
• Difficulty organizing words logically
• Reverting to speaking a native language
• Speaking less often
• Using nonverbal cues instead of words

How to Communicate with Someone with Alzheimer’s

Your communication methods will vary depending on the stage of Alzheimer’s as follows:

Early Stage

• Don’t make assumptions about a person’s communication skills after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. It affects everyone differently.
• Don’t exclude the person from conversations.
• Speak directly to the person rather than their caregiver or companion.
• Listen to the person express their thoughts and feelings.
• Give them time to respond. Don’t interrupt them unless help is necessary.
• Discuss the preferred method of communication, whether it be face-to-face, phone calls, or emails.
• Don’t be afraid to use humor.
• Don’t pull away. Continue to support the person during this difficult time.

Middle Stage

• Engage in one-on-one conversations in a quiet space with minimal distractions.
• Speak slowly and clearly while maintaining eye contact.
• Be patient and provide reassurance.
• Ask one question at a time.
• Ask simple questions that require yes or no answers
• Avoid criticizing and correcting, which can lead to attacks of agitation. Instead, try to listen and clarify.
• Avoid arguing, even if the person says something you disagree with.
• Offer clear step-by-step instructions for necessary tasks.
• Give visual cues if possible. Written notes can also be helpful.

Late Stage

• Approach a person and identify yourself before speaking.  
• Encourage nonverbal communication such as pointing and gesturing.
• Consider feelings behind words and sounds. Sometimes emotions are more important than what’s being said.
• Treat the person with respect and dignity, and avoid talking down to them.
• It’s okay if you don’t know what to say. Your presence and friendship are more valuable than words.

Stay At Home Provides Effective Alzheimer’s Care

Caring for people with Alzheimer’s is difficult, especially for unskilled family members. It is common to get frustrated and stressed. Stay at Home provides the professional care you need.

Our compassionate staff is skilled in all senior and personal care aspects, including Alzheimer’s and dementia support. We use dementia-specific approaches to ensure the safety and quality of living in Alzheimer’s patients. Contact us to learn how we can help your family during difficult times.

FAQS

How to support an Alzheimer’s caregiver?

You can help an Alzheimer’s caregiver by sharing duties, assisting with errands, offering financial, legal, and emotional support, and encouraging them to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

What are the golden rules of dementia caregiver support?

Golden rules dictate that caregivers should not ask direct questions. They should listen and learn and avoid contradicting.