When a loved one has Alzheimer’s or Dementia, interaction may be more difficult than it was before. You may struggle to understand their mindset and thought process or be unsure of how to diffuse potentially problematic situations. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to comfort people in your life with dementia and smooth the care process. 
1. Empathize Actively
If a loved one has Dementia, they may become easily confused by what is happening around them. They may not be sure of the time period in which they are living or who is with them. You may not be able to restore their ability to understand what’s going on. However, arguing with them will just frustrate everyone involved! By empathizing actively and trying to understand what they’re going through, on the other hand, you can remove many of the barriers and make it easier to deal with a difficult situation.
2. Interact in a Positive Way
When a loved one or an individual under your care has Dementia, it’s easy to slip into the habit of acting like the parent. Treating them like a child, however, can undermine their sense of self-worth and leave them feeling more off-balance than before! Instead, try to interact in a respectful and positive way. Take the time to listen to their opinions and adapt to them when possible.
3. Break Activities Into Steps
When you’re dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia, it’s important to break down regular activities into smaller steps to make them more manageable. This can be everything from taking a walk to getting ready for the day. Breaking down tasks into a series of smaller tasks makes them more approachable and manageable for an individual with Alzheimer’s or dementia. When you break down the tasks ahead of you, you can tackle each small one at a time. This can also make it easier for dementia sufferers to focus on the task currently at hand, rather than getting overwhelmed with the entire process which may cause them to get agitated and shut down completely.
4. Recall Good Memories
Recalling the “good old days” is often soothing and comforting for someone suffering from dementia. Take the time to talk about old and/or positive memories. Look through pictures together. Ask questions and genuinely listen to what they have to say. You’ll discover that looking back on old memories isn’t just a great way to calm them; it’s also an excellent bonding opportunity that can help both of you actively remember happier times as you continue to build a relationship.
5. Deliver Your Message Clearly
Speaking to someone with dementia can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you feel they aren’t able to absorb the message you’re trying to give them. When you’re struggling to communicate, try using short, clear sentences and simple, one-step instructions. Be careful not to slip into the habit of talking to your loved one like a child, but provide them with the information they need in an easy-to-understand manner to make it easier for both of you to communicate. You don’t have to use the patronizing method of speaking loudly and slowly to the elderly, which will undermine their sense of self-worth; do, however, slow down and take the time to break down what you have to say in a way that can be easily understood.
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be a difficult process. When you follow these five simple methods, however, you can break down communication barriers and make it easier to interact. Of course, remember that our Elderlink Home Care, Inc. team has over 30 years of experience providing Alzheimer’s and dementia support. If you are struggling or feeling overwhelmed, our caregivers can help! Call us today, at (303) 734-0641 or contact us via our website to learn how we can help!