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When your loved one lives in a memory care facility, visiting them shows you care and may keep them in good spirits. As the condition progresses, though, communication may become difficult for them, as they start to remember less and have more cognitive obstacles. Here are a few tips for communicating effectively and helpfully with your loved one who needs dementia care.

How to Speak With Someone in a Memory Care Facility

1. Be Patient & Understanding

Dementia may cause your loved one to not recognize you, be unable to focus on a conversation or communicate their thoughts, and have a harder time understanding what you’re saying. Be patient with them, and go along with topic changes. Don’t bring up sensitive topics or push the conversation if they seem uncomfortable or are struggling to remember. This may upset or distress them. Instead, switch to a more pleasant topic, or ask them about something they do seem to remember at the moment.

2. Limit Distractions

memory care facilityThe cognitive implications of dementia mean that it’s difficult for your loved one to hold a conversation, and distractions may make them overwhelmed. Distractions can include the TV or music playing in the background, beeping medical equipment, or other people in the room. Do what you can to make it easier for them to focus on the conversation, and when they seem distracted, small touches on the arm or knee may help them focus.

3. Use Body Language & Easy-to-Follow Sentences

Your loved one’s ability to comprehend what you’re saying may be hindered, so try to keep your sentences short and your words simple. It’s also helpful to use body language to convey emotion, too. Gestures, small touches, nods, and smiles will help them follow the conversation. Using body language when they’re talking encourages them to keep going and shows you’re paying attention.

4. Be Interested

Listen when they talk, and show them that you’re listening. Even if you aren’t sure you understand, go along with it and ask questions where you can. You may be the only person besides their dementia care team that they see that day, so use it to make it as good as possible, keeping interactions positive.

 

A high-quality assisted living or memory care facility will help your loved one with communication, comfort, and safety. Provident Village at Creekside in Smyrna, GA, and Provident Village at Canton in Cherokee County offer comprehensive assisted living and memory care services that are tailored to each patient, with 24/7 medical staff. Amenities include regular activities, a secure and landscaped courtyard, a spa salon, and housekeeping services. Learn about their memory care services online, and call (678) 210-7135 to schedule a tour.

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