Dementia Australia | The Dementia Guide

• Speak clearly and think about the words you use. If you are not being
understood, use simpler words or explain things differently.
• Stick to one topic and make sure questions are simple and easy to
understand – having too many choices can make decisions difficult.
• Keep in mind that other things, not just the dementia, can affect
communication, for example, hearing or eyesight problems, pain or
side effects of medication.
• It can sometimes help to deal with misunderstandings and mistakes
by using humour. Laughing together can ease tension, but you will
need to judge how the person responds to this.
• Ensure you involve the person in group conversations and avoid
talking across them.
In cases where English is a second language, some people living with
dementia may revert to their first language. This can pose challenges, if
the person with dementia reverts to a language unfamiliar to the carer.
Looking out for visual cues, communication aids such as word and
picture cards, and non-verbal communication such as body language
and gestures will all become increasingly important.
For more information see Help Sheet, Caring for someone with
dementia 1: Communication. Available at dementia.org.au
Interests
Help the person with dementia maintain their interests by getting
involved with activities you both enjoy. You can do this by:
• tapping into past interests and hobbies
• building on the person’s strengths, and focusing on what they can
still do
• listening to music, dancing, playing with animals and looking at old
photos
• considering some gentle exercise or outdoor activities
• trying different things until you find what works for you
108 Call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500