When someone you love is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, the relationship you once shared begins to shift. One of the most profound and painful changes for many families is the difficulty in communicating. Words may fade, memories become scattered, and emotions can erupt unexpectedly. But connection is still possible—often in new and deeply meaningful ways.
June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month—a time to recognize the more than 50 million people worldwide living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, as well as the millions of family caregivers navigating the emotional and physical challenges of supporting them. Among these challenges, communication stands out as both a frequent source of frustration and an opportunity for deeper connection.
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, it affects language and memory in complex ways:
It’s important to remember that beneath these changes, your loved one is still there. Shifting how you communicate can help maintain a sense of connection, ease behavioral symptoms, and bring more calm into daily life.
These dementia-informed techniques can help you foster better interactions and reduce stress for both you and your loved one:
Choose quiet settings without background noise. Turn off the TV or radio to help your loved one focus.
2. Start with presence and connection
Gently get their attention by using their name, sitting at their level, making eye contact, and speaking calmly.
3. Keep your message simple and clear
Use short, familiar words and sentences. Speak slowly and clearly, but avoid condescension or “baby talk.”
4. Give time for responses
Be patient and allow your loved one time to process and respond. Yes/no questions or gentle prompts can help.
5. Validate their emotions
Rather than correcting them, acknowledge their feelings: “That sounds upsetting. I’d feel that way too.”
6. Adapt your communication style
If repeating something, try the same words or a simpler version depending on how they respond. Flexibility is key.
7. Talk even when they can’t respond
Even if they can’t participate verbally, your voice and presence can provide comfort and connection.
8. Don’t argue with confusion
If they misidentify someone or place, focus on the emotion, not the error. Respond with empathy, not correction.
9. Use creative expression
Music, photos, or familiar routines can spark joy and allow for nonverbal connection.
10. Seek professional support
If communication is causing distress, consult a dementia care expert or join a caregiver support group.
Alzheimer’s can create a new version of reality for your loved one. Rather than insisting on the facts, sometimes it’s more compassionate to go along with their perception.
For example, if your loved one believes their long-deceased mother is coming to visit, it may be more soothing to say, “Tell me about your mother,” rather than remind them of her passing. These gentle “fiblets,” as dementia professionals call them, can reduce anxiety and keep interactions calm.
In later stages of Alzheimer’s, verbal communication may diminish—but meaningful connection is still possible through body language, shared activities, and emotional presence.
Try the following:
Watch for nonverbal cues—smiles, tension, restlessness—that offer insight into how your loved one is feeling. And be mindful of your own posture and expressions. A calm, open presence often speaks louder than words.
Navigating Alzheimer’s communication challenges can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. Geriatric care managers (GCMs) are experienced professionals who specialize in helping families manage the complexities of aging, especially when dementia is involved.
A GCM can:
At LiveWell, our geriatric care managers take a compassionate, personalized approach to supporting families. We understand that communication is more than just words—it’s about connection, dignity, and love.
