Communicating with Alzheimer’s patients

Communicating with a loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease is difficult for all parties. Often the family member is unable to understand or respond. Sometimes the person may hear and think that they understand, but they are unable to verbalize a response due to problems connected to the disease itself. However, learning to successfully communicate may help reduce aggressive behaviors as well as foster a meaningful relationship within a family. 

It has been shown that surrounding noise and movement may affect a person’s ability to communicate. He may find all of this other stimulation too distracting when trying to sit and listen to someone. Therefore, it may be helpful to sit face-to-face with the loved one and spend some time doing sensory stimulation such as holding their hand or rubbing their arm - something they’ll like. 

Similarly, the element of surprise is not usually looked on as a positive factor for the Alzheimer’s patient. Therefore, it may be preferable to not yell a loud “HELLO” when greeting them, but rather, softly introduce yourself, and speak in quieter tones.

Speaking slowly in a low pitched voice is also helpful. In addition, asking only one simple question at a time may be more beneficial to communicating. And once you ask a simple question that requires a simple yes or no answer, perhaps a follow up question on the same topic may allow the family member to respond appropriately. 

There are a few other techniques that may be helpful. Perhaps there are home movies, for instance, a video of a wedding or other family events that may reintroduce family members to the Alzheimer’s patient. Identification can certainly enhance the family relationship while reinforcing who the various people are. However, the tape or movie may have to be repeated several times, and even on a daily basis, for the family member to achieve some recognition of events, family, special occasions, etc.

Another means of stimulating conversation is to play movies or documentaries of historical events. Biographies and historical documentaries may spark a memory in the Alzheimer’s patient when played. In addition, it may be beneficial to video tape or otherwise record photographs with narration that the person may view on their own in order to jog his memory. Special music recorded on the video may also be recognizable and reminiscent to the patient.


By: Hyman G. Darling, Esq.