Communicating with People with Dementia
When someone you care about is living with dementia, simple conversations can sometimes feel complicated. The words might not come easily – for them or for you. But here’s the truth: communication is about so much more than words.
At Holly’s Haven, we believe every interaction is a chance to bring comfort, connection, and dignity. Even when memory fades, emotion remains. People with dementia may forget what you said, but they’ll remember how you made them feel.
Start with Patience and Presence
Talking with someone who has dementia begins with slowing down – not just your speech, but your whole presence.
Sit beside them. Make eye contact. Smile. Let them set the pace of the conversation.
It’s not about correcting or convincing. It’s about connecting. If they mix up details or ask the same question again, that’s okay. Meet them where they are in that moment, not where you wish they could be.
Patience says, “I’m here with you. You’re safe.”
Keep It Simple and Gentle
When speaking, use short, clear sentences. Too many words or choices can feel overwhelming for them.
Instead of asking, “What would you like to drink – water, juice, or tea?” try, “Would you like some water?”
And if they don’t understand right away, it’s okay to pause, smile, and try again. Sometimes it helps to use gentle gestures or show them what you mean.
Tone matters more than precision – speak softly, kindly, and at a calm pace.
Listen Beyond Words
Communication with someone who has dementia is often less about what’s said and more about what’s felt.
Pay attention to body language, facial expressions, and mood changes. These cues can tell you so much. A furrowed brow might mean confusion, a restless hand might mean discomfort, a small smile might mean contentment.
Listening with your heart allows you to respond with compassion rather than frustration.
The Power of Familiarity
Familiar routines, music, and memories can help spark recognition and comfort.
Try playing a favorite song from their younger years, flipping through old photo albums, or talking about meaningful topics – childhood homes, family traditions, favorite foods.
Even if they don’t recall every detail, the feelings those memories bring often remain and that’s what’s important.
When Words Aren’t Needed
As dementia progresses, there may come a time when words fade altogether. But connection doesn’t have to.
A gentle touch on the hand, a calm voice, or sitting quietly together can speak louder than any sentence. Presence itself is a powerful reminder that they are not alone, not forgotten, and still deeply loved.
Final Thoughts
Communicating with someone who has dementia isn’t about getting every word right – it’s about keeping love at the center.
At Holly’s Haven, we encourage volunteers, caregivers, and families to approach every interaction with empathy, grace, and a little flexibility.
Because when you lead with patience and compassion, you’ll find that even in silence, connection still happens.
Want to Make a Difference?
If you have a heart for companionship and a gift for kindness, consider becoming a hospice volunteer.
At Holly’s Haven, our volunteers bring joy, comfort, and connection to patients and families when they need it most.
Your presence can brighten a day, calm a worry, or bring a smile – and that kind of care matters more than you know.
