Communicating with people who havedementiacan be difficult, especially if they are nonresponsive and stare at you.
Dementia affects people’s memory, communication skills, judgement, andexecutive functioning.
Theyd Like a Little Respect
People withAlzheimersor another dementia arent children.
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Theyre adults who had jobs, families, and responsibilities.
They may have been very accomplished in their field.
They are mothers and fathers, sisters, and brothers.
Avoid talking to them like they are children.
Treat them how you would like to be treated if it was you with dementia.
But you dont need to speak very loudly if they dont have a hearing impairment.
In the middle and later stages of the disease, communication can become more difficult.
You may need a quiet place where you might have one-on-one conversations with minimal distractions.
They Might Be Bored
Is your friend with dementia staring off into space and zoning out?
This could be because their ability to process information is decreased.
However, it might also be that they need something other than Bingo to fill their time.
see to it they have something to do besides sit there.
People with dementia needmeaningful activities.
Dementia and Staring
Dementia symptoms are different for everyone and can occur at any stage.
Sometimes losing the ability to focus and pay attention can make someone stare blankly.
Staring off into space shows that the person is not engaged in the environment.
It could also be a symptom ofLewy body dementia.
A Poor Memory Can Be Scary
Not being able toremember somethingcan be very anxiety-provoking and frightening.
Games can be helpful when it comes to keeping memory problems at bay.
There is some evidence that crossword puzzles and word games may slow cognitive decline.
In the early stages, it might be yourname that they cant recall.
They Are Not to Blame for Their Disease
Its not their fault.
It’s of no help to either one of you.
Even if you don’t know what to say, it’s okay.
It’s more important that you are there with the person.
Your presence shows that you care.
Most often, theres a reason that they are acting the way they are.
They Need You
And, you need them.
Dont let dementia rob you both of more than their memory.
Continue to spend time with them and nurture the relationship.
Although Alzheimers changes things, we dont have to let it have the power to divide loved ones.
You both will benefit from the time you enjoy together.
Time is a valuable gift.
Spending your time with a friend or family member who has dementia shows them that you care.
Give people with dementia respect by talking to them like an adult.
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Duong S, Patel T, Chang F.Dementia: What pharmacists need to know.Can Pharm J (Ott).
