Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and related Dementias often have significant communication changes as their disease progresses.  Due to physiological changes in the human brain, the individual can experience changes in cognition, reasoning, sequence and application, and personality changes.  Some individuals experience varying levels of confusion and disorientation i.e. familiar places may become unrecognizable, routine chores (using the washing machine, buttoning a blouse) may become difficult.  A person’s ability to reason may deteriorate and their thoughts of “reality” may change.  A person’s ability to do things in a sequence may become difficult e.g. putting on shoes first instead of their slacks.  Some individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and related Dementias may also experience personality changes.  All of these changes are very common. 

As these changes occur, it becomes more difficult for that individual to communicate with family and others as well as for family and friends to communicate with their loved one.  You are not alone!  Effective communication is attainable with some suggested tips:
  1. It’s important to remember that individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease only communicate 10% verbally.  Because their brain is functioning in a different way now, as family and caregivers we must be patient and pay attention to their non-verbal cues.  Try to figure out the meaning behind their actions.
  2. Always speak in a slow, calm voice.  Make eye contact i.e. if they are sitting down, get down to their level of eyesight.
  3. Use hand gestures and non-verbal cues when communicating. Show them what you want them to do.
  4. Don't argue or correct them.
  5. Allow your loved one to set their own pace; avoid hurrying or rushing them.
  6. Eliminate any distracting background noise.
  7. Ask yes/no questions, as they are easier for them to answer.  If you always get a “no” answer, instead of saying ‘do you want a shower?’, say “It’s time for our shower now.”
  8. Repeat phrases as needed.  Avoid saying “I just told you 5 minutes ago…”  Keep in mind that they truly may not remember.
  9. The sense of touch is powerful thing i.e. if they don’t understand your words, give a hug or a pat on the back to communicate.
  10. Keep tasks and activities simple and give one instruction at a time.

See the Alzheimer’s Association’s website www.alz.org for more tips on communication.