Rules of communication with a patient with dementia

Key communication rules for interacting with a relative with dementia

Calmness and patience

• Maintain a soft, friendly tone.
• Avoid irritation, even if questions are repeated.
• Show empathy: dementia makes it difficult to control emotions.

Simplicity and clarity

• Use short sentences and simple words.
• Ask questions that require one-word answers ("Yes/No").
• Avoid abstractions. For example: instead of saying "We’ll eat soon" — say "Lunch in 10 minutes".

Nonverbal communication

• Maintain eye contact while staying at eye level with the person.
• Use smiles, nods, open gestures.
• Gently apply touch (e.g., holding their hand).

Avoid conflicts

• Do not argue or correct mistakes. If the person believes it is 1970, ask about their memories.
• Redirect attention when tension arises: "Look, what a beautiful flower!"

Respect and dignity

• Do not talk about the person in the third person in their presence.
• Avoid infantilizing language (like baby talk).
• Support independence: offer choices ("Tea or coffee?").

Working with emotions

• Stay calm when faced with aggression, do not raise your voice.
• Find out the cause: the person may be experiencing pain or fear.
• Use distraction: music, photo albums, a walk.

Structure and routine

• Maintain a daily routine to reduce anxiety.
• Use visual cues: clocks with large numbers, notes.
• Gently remind about important actions without pressuring.

Comfortable environment

• Remove noise (turn off the TV, radio).
• Ensure good lighting.
• Monitor physical condition: hunger, thirst, or pain can increase stress.

Engagement in communication

• Ask questions about the past (these memories are often preserved).
• Use music, art therapy, tactile objects (soft toys, fabrics).
• Praise even small achievements.

Support for relatives

• Educate yourself: read literature, attend support groups.
• Consult specialists (neurologists, gerontologists, psychologists).
• Don't forget about your own rest: emotional burnout impairs communication.

Important: Dementia progresses, so the rules may change depending on the stage. In the later stages, nonverbal communication and comfort care become the main focus.