Dementia is a syndrome that can be caused by a number of diseases that, over time, destroy nerve cells and damage the brain, deteriorating cognitive function, beyond what occurs in the natural aging process.
In each case, the duration of these stages is relative, but maintaining a supportive relationship with the person diagnosed with the disease is essential for their quality of life.
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Despite the foregoing, social activities and interactions that stimulate the brain and maintain daily activity are key for the person to maintain their quality of life and improve their well-being, as explained by the Alzheimer’s Association on its website.
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As there is no treatment for dementia, it is vitally important that family, friends and caregivers keep in mind all the tools they can use to support those who suffer from this disease.
Physical contact can be helpful in starting conversations with people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
But, as already mentioned, various institutions highlight the importance of patiently accompanying and encouraging people with this diagnosis. Therefore, it is key that you keep certain parameters in mind so that communicating with your loved one or acquaintance is not a problem.
According to the US National Institutes of Health, you should be aware of your body language, for example, by making eye contact with the person and directing your attention to it.
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Added to this are gestures or physical contact, which you can use to guide someone. You should also take the location into account. avoid places that are very noisy or full of stimuli.
– Do not interrupt the person.
– Listen to the person’s concerns, even if it is difficult to understand what they are saying.
– Ask closed questions, which require a yes or no answer. Instead of saying, “How are you feeling?” ask, “Are you tired?” and limit the options when asking other questions.
– Use different words if the person does not understand the first time.
– Avoid saying, “Don’t you remember?” or “I told him”.
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– Provide simple, step-by-step instructions.
– Allow the person to take their time, without pressure.
– Do not talk to the person using childish language or voice.
– Start the conversation.
Avoid discussing and pointing out their mistakes, as they are not aware of them and may cause them anger. Also, do not use expressions like “Again? You’ve already asked me three times!”, as they only generate frustration, irritability, sadness and withdrawal.
If you get frustrated, take a “time out” and remove yourself from the situation, recommends the Alzheimer’s Association.
Added to this is learning to interpret what the person with dementia is trying to communicate, as they will not always be able to put it into words.
Undoubtedly, the most frequent recommendation is to be empathetic with the person with Alzheimer’s, since it depends on the state of their condition, they do not have full control over what they understand, say or remember, while you do. Be respectful, loving and understanding.
