Communicating with a loved one with dementia can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to build a different kind of bond.
Join us at The Kensington Reston for “Care. Cure. Prevent.” This event will explore groundbreaking Alzheimer’s research and care and include insight from experts on dementia communication.
This special session, hosted by Lauren Miller Rogen, co-founder of Hilarity for Charity (HFC), offers a local watch party that brings our community together.
Lauren, who created HFC with her husband, actor Seth Rogen, combines her personal experience and advocacy to lead discussions with top experts to share the latest advancements in the treatment and prevention of dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Mark your calendars and attend this engaging discussion designed to support caregivers and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s
Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
Care. Cure. Prevent. panel and watch party at The Kensington Reston
During this event, Lauren Miller Rogen will lead a panel of distinguished experts from renowned institutions such as Cedars Sinai, UCLA, Stanford, and the Ray Dolby Brain Health Center.
Our esteemed panel of experts includes:
- Dr. Travis Urban of the Dolby Memory Center
- Dr. Irina Skylar-Scott of Stanford
- Dr. Sarah Kremen of Cedars Sinai Medical Center
- Dr. Leila Parand of the University of California, Los Angeles
“I’m always excited to return to Care. Cure. Prevent. It’s such a meaningful opportunity to hear directly from experts about dementia care, treatment, and prevention, and to engage with our community in a shared mission. Every year, I walk away with new insights, and I’m so proud to help foster these important conversations. As we look ahead to HFC’s upcoming CareCon on Valentine’s Day and the public premiere of our documentary, Taking Care, in late November, I’m thrilled to continue building awareness and support for families impacted by dementia through HFC, Kensington Senior Living, and beyond.” – Lauren Miller Rogen
Together, they will explore critical topics such as the human impact of Alzheimer’s disease, debunking common myths, and understanding factual realities.
They will also discuss practical steps to take following an Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis, how to manage the evolving challenges within family dynamics, and the potential implications of recent drug approvals, including those from manufacturer Biogen.
Expect to receive expert recommendations on lifestyle habits that could diminish the risk of memory loss and other degenerative brain diseases.
How dementia affects the brain’s ability to communicate
Dementia profoundly impacts the brain’s ability to handle communication. As the disease progresses, it often targets the neural pathways that manage language processing and expression.
For instance, aphasia, a common symptom in many dementia patients, can obliterate the ability to recognize words, severely hindering both spoken and written communication.
Beyond aphasia, dementia can disrupt the ability to formulate or understand speech, leading to frustrations in everyday interactions.
Symptoms might include difficulty finding words, repeating phrases, or speaking incoherently.
Behavioral changes such as irritability or withdrawal often accompany these communication breakdowns.
3 things to never say to your loved one with dementia
When your loved one has dementia, everyday conversations can become challenging.
Here’s how to communicate in ways that support their dignity and your relationship without making things harder for them.
These three tips will help you avoid common mistakes that can cause confusion or distress.
1. Don’t ask, “Do you remember?”
Asking if someone remembers certain events or people can be stressful for those with dementia.
This question highlights their difficulties and can lead to frustration or embarrassment.
Instead of testing their memory, share stories or facts in a way that doesn’t require them to confirm their memory of the event, which keeps the conversation more positive and less aggressive.
2. Don’t correct or argue
It’s natural to want to correct inaccuracies when a loved one with dementia shares something that isn’t true. However, correcting or arguing can cause anxiety and distress.
It’s more beneficial to enter their reality and engage with them now, which can be more comforting and less likely to provoke agitation.
Focus on feelings rather than facts; acknowledge their emotions and divert to another topic if needed.
3. Don’t be impatient or condescending
Avoid speaking too quickly or using complex sentences that can be hard to follow. Also, avoid talking about the person with dementia as if they are not there or talking to them as if they are children, which can be demeaning.
Maintain dignity by speaking to them as adults and giving them time to respond at their own pace, reinforcing their values and autonomy.
The 5 “do’s” of effective dementia communication
Communicating with a loved one who has dementia can feel daunting. However, adopting a few key approaches can make your interactions more positive and meaningful.
These strategies are designed to help you connect more deeply and supportively with your loved one, minimizing frustration for both of you.
1. Use simple, clear language
Keep your sentences short and your words straightforward. This makes it easier for your loved one to follow along and understand what you’re saying.
Example: Instead of saying, “Could you possibly get ready for us to head out to your appointment in an hour?” simplify it to, “Let’s get ready to go out.”
2. Stay positive and reassuring
A calm and positive tone can help prevent agitation and confusion. Smiling and using a gentle voice will reassuringly convey your message.
Example: If your loved one feels unsure, say, “You’re doing great. I’m here with you.”
3. Engage in their reality
If your loved one is experiencing a reality different from yours, it’s often more compassionate to meet them where they are rather than correct them.
Example: If they talk about seeing a deceased relative, instead of saying, “But Grandma passed away,” you might respond, “Grandma loved you a lot. Tell me more about your time with her today.”
4. Use visual aids and gestures
Sometimes, words are not enough. Pointing to objects or using physical cues can help clarify your messages and directives.
Example: If it’s mealtime, instead of just asking if they’re hungry, you could point to the plate of food and say, “It’s time to eat. Here’s your lunch.”
5. Validate their feelings
Acknowledging your loved one’s emotions goes a long way in maintaining their dignity. Show that you understand and care about how they feel.
Example: If they express worry or confusion, respond with, “I see this is tough on you. Let’s do it together.”
Enhance dementia communication skills at The Kensington Reston
The Kensington Reston is dedicated to providing exceptional Alzheimer’s and dementia care through our assisted living and memory care services, including Connections for early-stage support and Haven for advanced care needs.
We ensure comfort and support with physical rehabilitation, all-day dining, and specialized events designed to educate and assist caregivers and their loved ones.
If you want a community that prioritizes your loved one’s care and well-being, contact The Kensington Reston to discuss Our Promise to love and care for your family as we do our own.