Communicating to a Loved One with Dementia
When communicating to someone with dementia, consider:
- Including them: Bring them in on the conversation using their name and make eye contact with them.
- Listening and being patient: Be open to what they are sharing with you. Do not rush their response or react negatively to their concerns.
- Adapting your approach: Try using different words if they do not understand the first time. Ask yes or no questions like “Would you like a sandwich for lunch?” rather than “What would you like to eat for lunch.”
Navigating Hallucinations, Delusions and Paranoia
Hallucinations, delusions and paranoia can occur in persons with dementia due to the changes occurring in their brain. Paranoia often occurs as memory loss worsens and they become more forgetful.
It is important to inform your physician of these behavior changes to review medications and other symptoms.
To navigate hallucinations, delusions and paranoia, try to:
- Distract: Take them to a new environment, turn off the TV or look at photos.
- Comfort: Try not to react to accusations or argue with what they may be experiencing. Instead let them know they are safe and that you care with a gentle touch or hug.
Note that a person may rightfully be acting paranoid if they are experiencing elder abuse.
Symptoms of elder abuse include:
- Unexplained bruises, burns or scars.
- Appearing neglected with bed sores, poor hygiene, dehydrated or underfed.
- Changes in finances.
If you notice these changes, contact Adult Protect Services or the police.
Navigating Agitation and Aggression
Agitation and aggression in person with dementia may occur from:
- Stress, loneliness or depression.
- Fatigue.
- Pain, constipation or soiled underwear.
- Sudden changes in the environment, too much noise or too many people.
- Feeling a loss of independence or forced into something.
- A combination of medications.
To cope with agitation or aggression from dementia try to:
- Keep a daily routine.
- Limit caffeine intake.
- Schedule time for relaxing activities like listening to soothing music, reading or going for a walk.
- Create a more peaceful environment with their favorite photos and keepsakes, reduce noise and limit the number of people in the room.
If aggression continues, talk to your medical provider to discuss possible causes and options.
