Alzheimer Family Program

Communication

Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease are slowly losing the ability to understand what they hear as well as to express themselves.

Communicating can be challenging. As a Caregiver, be careful to use simple words and short sentences. Your voice should be gentle and calm.

Show respect by communicating adult-to-adult and address the individual by name to ensure that you have his or her attention.

Approach the individual from the front, slowly. Your loved one may be easily startled when approached from the rear or in a frantic fashion.

Look the person in the eye. This helps them focus attention on you before you speak.

Be calm and friendly in your expression. Your expression and manner will communicate your good will to your loved one even if he cannot understand your words. In many instances, your actions will speak louder than your words.

Use simple gestures to communicate your point. Gestures add another cue besides words and tone of voice. As the Alzheimer’s disease progresses, your loved one needs as many cues as possible to understand you.

Don’t rush, but allow enough time for the individual to respond, and be careful not to interrupt. Show respect. If the individual is struggling to find a word to communicate, gently try to provide the word he or she is looking for.

Communicate in a positive manner and smile when appropriate.

Communicate in an environment that is free of background noise. Turn off the television and radio to help minimize distractions. This will help the individual focus on what you are saying.

Information Source: U.S. National Institute of Health, National Institute On Aging