As dementia progresses, communication can become increasingly challenging. Recognizing those changes will help the person with dementia, along with family and friends, find ways to communicate more effectively.

Here is a conversation with speech-language pathologist Tammy Hopper. Tammy shares practical communication techniques and tips to help you communicate more effectively with someone living with dementia.

5 Tips for Improving Communication (Middle Stage)

Download and print a copy of the activity sheet below.  It provides a nice summary of five key points that Tammy and Liana discussed in the video:

1. Use "clear speech"
2. Simplify - vocabulary, sentences, explanations
3. Use choice questions (but not all the time...)
4. Talk about things you can see, touch, feel
5. Validate feelings and beliefs - "connect vs correct"

Five Tips for Improving Communication

Download File 

For Reflection…

After you’ve read the activity sheet, take a few minutes to reflect on the following questions.  Feel free to make some notes.

• What stood out to you as you read the information? What surprised you?
• Now that you’ve reviewed the activity sheet, what will you continue to do in your role as a care partner?  What will you stop or do differently?
• What’s the ONE new communication tip you plan to try with the person you are caring for?

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More Learning Resources

Communicating with People Living with Dementia

Enhancing Communication: A By Us For Us Guide

For Person Living with Dementia: Managing Changes in Your Communication 

Communication Tips for Caregivers

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