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.
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:
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.