Communicating with Someone Living with Dementia

Communicating with Someone Living with Dementia

The way we respond can make a huge difference in helping someone with dementia feel safe, respected, and understood.

Here are 10 gentle guidelines to help keep communication calm, supportive, and dignified:

1. Never argue – instead, agree.
2. Never reason – instead, divert.
3. Never shame – instead, distract.
4. Never lecture – instead, reassure.
5. Never say “remember” – instead, reminisce together.
6. Never say “I told you” – instead, repeat with patience.
7. Never say “you can’t” – instead, focus on what they can do.
8. Never demand – instead, ask.
9. Never condescend – instead, encourage.
10. Never force – instead, reinforce gently.

Communication isn’t just about words - it’s about making someone feel respected, safe, and valued.

Our Forget Me Not Admiral Nurses are here if you’d like more advice or support admiralnurse@hospice.org.im or pop down to the Sea Terminal tomorrow on Friday 26 September 10am-4pm.