Unlocking Connection: Communication Strategies For Dementia Care

Unlocking Connection: Communication Strategies For Dementia Care

Communicating with someone living with dementia is about connection over correction—it’s not just what you say, but how you say it. Combining insights from Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care *wish I knew who to credit for this image (PAC) and the immersive Dementia Live® experience (2 programs I’m familiar with), we can build meaningful bridges through thoughtful interaction.

* Start with Presence: Approach from the front to ensure they see you coming, make gentle eye contact, and smile warmly. As Teepa Snow teaches, standing face-to-face fosters trust and clarity, while a slight shift to the side-by-side position can reduce tension during ongoing conversations.
* Speak with Purpose: Use short, clear sentences and a calm, steady tone. Ask one question at a time—preferably yes/no or offering simple choices like, “Would you like coffee or tea?” Pause after speaking, giving them time to process and respond.
* Validate, Don’t Argue: Dementia Live® emphasizes entering their reality instead of pulling them into yours. If they express confusion or a misplaced belief, gently validate their emotions: “That sounds important to you. Tell me more.”
* Connect Through Touch and Gesture: A light touch on the hand or shoulder (if welcomed), expressive facial cues, and simple visual aids— like photos or written reminders—can reinforce understanding.
* Small Moments, Big Impact: Effective communication with dementia patients isn’t about fixing every misunderstanding; it’s about creating moments of connection. Whether through a smile, a shared story, or a patient pause, these moments build bridges where words sometimes fall short.