Implementing effective methods of communication is so important when dealing with individuals with Dementia.
Your method of communication may need to adapt and change as the Dementia develops and progresses or depending on the type of Dementia.
Dementia can influence a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others and those living with Dementia often find it difficult to process information and will find it increasingly difficult to speak, read and write over time. Those living with Dementia may also have difficulties with social skills, as the Dementia progresses, and this will see a further decline in that person’s ability to communicate and interact with others.
Some tips for effective communication that we encourage are:
rather than arguing
rather than saying “I told you so”
rather than reasoning
Try looking at what they can do,
rather than saying “You can’t”
rather than ridiculing and shaming
rather than demanding
rather than lecturing
rather than belittling
rather than using “remember”
rather than forcing