You are going to wish you knew about the third tip in this episode much earlier! As caregivers for our husbands, parents, and other loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, we've learned that communication is a constantly evolving process. In the beginning (the early season of the diagnosis), our primary goal is to help our care receivers maintain as much dignity and independence as possible. We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster, and through our experiences, we've developed four tips to help you communicate. 

Show Notes

Takeaways

In this episode, we're talking about communication “in the beginning”. When we say “In the beginning” we mean when you're mostly helping your care receiver manage things (often behind the scenes), while also helping them maintain their independence. 

We offer four tips to help you.

Tip 1: Help Them Plan Their Day

One of the most effective ways to support your loved one is by assisting them in planning their day. This involves understanding what they can realistically accomplish and creating a manageable list of tasks for them to do. The list also helps you support them, making it easier to prompt them gently throughout the day to complete these tasks. This approach helps them feel valued and accomplished at day's end.

Tip 2: Simplify and Minimize

As cognitive abilities decline, it's important to simplify instructions and minimize distractions. What worked one week might be too complex the next, so constant observation and adjustments are necessary. 

Tip 3: Use Positive Reinforcement and Body Language

Positive reinforcement can have a profound impact on your loved one's mood and cooperation. Even if it feels unnatural at first, offering praise for completing simple tasks can boost their confidence and create a more positive atmosphere.

Tip 4: Share the Truth They Need to Hear

While honesty is important, we've learned that it's often more beneficial to share "the truth they need to hear" rather than the whole truth. Rather than think of this as lying, think of it as providing information in a way that minimizes their – and often our - anxiety and frustration.

Everything you're experiencing in terms of communication during this early season of their dementia may feel challenging and strange. You'll be constantly adapting and adjusting your approach. But, this is just a phase. You will manage through this situation, and it will get better.

Related episodes

2. Memory Loss: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias / Practical Tips and Candid Conversations

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