Category

dementia communication

A woman uses tips for how to talk to someone with dementia while communicating with her elderly mother.

Gentle Ways to Stay Connected: How to Talk to Someone With Dementia

When someone you care about starts to struggle with dementia, the conversations you once shared can feel unfamiliar and disjointed. The smooth exchange of stories and memories may slow to a halt, leaving you wondering how to keep the relationship strong. But even when words become difficult, connection is still

A father uses age-appropriate language to explain dementia to kids in the family.

Age-Appropriate Ways to Explain Dementia to Kids

When a family member starts showing signs of dementia, children often become curious and concerned. They might wonder, “Why does Grandpa keep forgetting where he put his glasses?” or “Is it my fault that Grandma doesn’t recognize me sometimes?” As a parent or caregiver, you may not have all the

A woman forms an X with her arms as she practices learning to say no as a caregiver.

Learning to Say No as a Caregiver

Do you often find yourself juggling endless requests—another errand, one more favor, an extra responsibility—until your own needs take a backseat? As a caregiver, especially for a loved one, it’s easy to fall into the habit of always saying yes. However, constantly overextending yourself can lead to exhaustion and emotional

A woman rests her forehead against her elderly mother’s and smiles, using nonverbal communication in Alzheimer’s care to stay connected.

The Power of Nonverbal Communication in Alzheimer’s Caregiving

You ask a simple question: “Which shirt would you like to wear today?” But instead of a response, you’re met with hesitation, confusion, and a lengthy pause. You have most likely encountered instances like this while caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, where words seem lost and conversations feel more like

An older woman and her adult daughter hug each other and smile as they connect better through effective dementia communication skills.

Dementia Communication: 5 Things You Should Never Say

Have you ever said the wrong thing? Perhaps your objective was to compliment a friend on her new haircut, but you came across sounding like you were criticizing her previous hairstyle. Choosing our words carefully is always important, but even more so when speaking with someone with dementia. The words