Guide: Talking to someone with dementia: Intro

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A few months ago I began a section on this website called “Communication.” In it, we’ve covered both verbal and nonverbal communication, but I’d like to approach the topic from a different direction.

Basically, I want to create a step-by-step guide for what to do when you visit with someone living with dementia. How do you address them? What do you do during awkward moments? Can you guide the conversation proactively?

I’d love to incorporate any thoughts or experiences that you, my fabulous readers, have to share. Please comment (near the bottom of the page) with your suggestions. If we create something good, I’ll make it into a downloadable PDF that you can share with friends, family, and colleagues!

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There’s a saying in the dementia community that elicits a lot of giggles:

“If you’ve met one person with dementia, you know…one person with dementia!”

(a cheeky take on the ol’ “If you’ve met one, you know ’em all!“)

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There is no one-size-fits-all solution for ANYTHING, especially as far as dementia is concerned. So this post (as well as any future guide) needs to be approached with that in mind.

Not every tip works for or is appropriate for every situation. My hope is to create a well-stocked toolbox that you can use to make the most out of your visits with people living with moderate- (or more severe) symptoms of dementia.

We’ll cover the following topics:

• Intro (this page)
• Your approach
• What to say
• Yikes! What now? 
• How to leave (coming soon!)

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Your Approach →

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No Medical Advice

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