Watching your loved one experience bouts of confusion due to dementia can be challenging. You may feel helpless and unsure of how to respond when they become unfamiliar with you or their surroundings. Here are some tips for navigating these circumstances. 

5 Ways to Communicate With a Confused Loved One Who Has Dementia

1. Adapt to Their Reality 

Your loved one’s mind may be in a different period of time or place than their current reality. As long as it isn’t harmful to them, consider adapting to what they’re perceiving. For example, if they think it’s a Saturday morning even though it’s Monday afternoon, allowing them to continue thinking that way could eliminate unnecessary stress or confusion.   

2. Use Distractions

It may be difficult to get your loved one to comply when you need to complete certain tasks, such as taking them to the doctor’s office. If they tend to become upset or confused over these events, try distracting them. You can tell them you’re going out for a car ride, for example. This therapeutic distraction can also work for changing the subject during conversations that have become confusing for them.

3. Keep Corrections Gentle and Brief 

Dementia can impair your loved one’s reasoning skills. When you have to correct a behavior that could be dangerous, use the simplest explanation possible. For example, instead of telling them they can’t go somewhere alone because they could get lost, simply let them know that you’d like to accompany them.  

4. Respond to Their Emotions

Sometimes, it may be difficult to understand the meaning behind your loved one’s words. In these situations, it’s more important that you respond to their emotions. If they seem agitated, confused, or otherwise upset, try to respond with a calming presence to keep them at ease, even if you’re not quite sure what they’re trying to say.

5. Be Mindful of Your Own Feelings

Your loved one’s forgetfulness and fluctuating emotions can sometimes manifest in a way that may be hurtful to you. It can be helpful to remember that these changes are a result of dementia and not reflective of their true feelings or personality. Be mindful of how their changes are impacting you emotionally, mentally, and physically, and use resources such as counseling or respite care if needed. 

If you have a loved one with dementia, Memory Care Home Solutions is here to help. This St. Louis, MO, organization offers in-home caregiver training and memory care resources at no cost. Find out more about how they can help your family by visiting their website or by calling (314) 645-6247.