When someone has Alzheimer’s or dementia, changes in their brain cause a decline in their ability to listen and respond to normal conversation. That might leave you wondering how to talk to someone with Alzheimer’s. It turns out that speaking in short, direct sentences is a way to communicate that’s more comfortable for them. With less information to process, they’re more likely to understand what you’re saying and respond appropriately.Alzheimer’s and dementia affect the brain’s ability to process and retrieve information. That can make it very difficult for someone with dementia to listen, understand, and respond appropriately to normal conversation. That’s why using short direct sentences with only one thought per sentence is recommended. It makes it easier for someone with dementia to understand what you’re saying. Thoughts that are long or complex can be overwhelming because it’s too much to process. This technique might feel strange at first because we’re used to using friendly conversation to fill the silence, let someone know what’s happening, or to show that we care. Combining fewer words with a warm and positive to me will be less frustrating for seniors with dementia and is just as kind.Each person with Alzheimer’s or dementia is different and will have a different level of cognitive impairment. Here are some examples to use as starting points and experiment to find what works best for both your loved one and you in different situations.• It’s time for your loved one to use the restroom. DO say: It’s time to go to the bathroom now. DON’T say: Its been about an hour since you last visited the bathroom so why don’t we go to the bathroom and you can give it a try. OK? How does that sound? Do you want to go to the bathroom now?• It’s time for your loved one to have lunch. DO say: Mmmmm, it’s time to eat spaghetti…(pause)...Let’s go to the kitchen.DON’T say: Are you hungry? It’s lunch time and I thought you’d enjoy one of your favorites – spaghetti. Let’s go to the kitchen so you can eat. After lunch, we’ll go outside for a walk so you can get some fresh air. How does that sound?• You’re taking your loved one to a doctor appointment. DO say: It’s time to go out...(pause)...Here’s your jacket… (pause)…Let’s get into the car.DON’T say: We’re going to see Dr. Lee today. She’s going to check ...
