Communication And Approach In Dementia Care

For someone living with dementia, communication isn't just conversation. It is reassurance, safety, and dignity. 

As dementia progresses, everyday communication is also shaped by diversity. One in five people speak a language other than English and 2,500,000 more people in Australia speak a language other than English 2021, compared to 2006. Being aware of this helps carers respond with understanding and flexibility.

Why Communication Matters 

Communication allows people to express thoughts, emotions and needs, maintain relationships, share information and feel safe. For people living with dementia even small gestures or tones of voice can communicate reassurance and respect when words are difficult. 

 

Common Communication Challenges 

People living with dementia may: 

• Have trouble finding words or expressing emotions  
• Repeat themselves or respond unexpectedly 
• Misinterpret meanings or tone 
• Revert to their first language Experience hearing or vision changes 
• Show frustration due to misunderstandings 

Being aware of these barriers helps carers adapt and respond more effectively.

 

Factors That Impact Communication

Communication is influenced by many factors, including the environment, a person’s health and emotional state, cultural or language differences, and the way staff communicate through tone, facial expressions and body language. Even small adjustments in these areas can significantly improve understanding and connection.

 

Effective Communication Approaches 

To reduce confusion: 

• Use simple, clear language and avoid slang
• Use names instead of pronouns
• Speak slowly and allow time for responses 

Remember the 38-55-7 rule. The way we communicate is composed of, 55% body language, 38% tone of voice, 7% words. How we say things often matters more than what we say. 

 

Practical Communication Approaches

When communicating with someone living with dementia, small and thoughtful actions can have a meaningful impact. Using a person’s name helps build connection, while calm gestures and visual cues support understanding.

It is important to acknowledge feelings rather than correct or challenge, as this helps reduce distress. Creating a quiet, familiar environment and paying attention to comfort and wellbeing can make communication feel safer and more effective.

Using Life Stories To Connect 

One of the best ways to improve communication with someone living with dementia is to draw on their life story. Talking about their experiences, favourite memories, or hobbies can help build trust and make interactions more meaningful. 

For example, during the personal care, following familiar routines chatting about past experiences or playing their favourite music can make the moment comfortable. At mealtimes, offering favourite foods and talking about their preferences engages both senses and memory. Even simple household tasks can be an opportunity encouraging them to help with easy chores before or after activities can give a sense of purpose and connection.

Key Takeaways 

Simple changes in communication can make a big difference:

• Introduce yourself each time and use names
• Speak calmly at eye level
• Validate feelings and identify unmet needs
• Offer choices rather than instructions
• Smile and show kindness

Being present, patient, and compassionate transforms everyday interactions into meaningful connections.

Try it today! pick one small change and see how it affects your connection. Even tiny adjustments can make a big difference.