Building communication with an Alzheimer’s patient is a challenge. Whether you are a family member or a caregiver, regularly communicating with someone who has the disease is surely going to require patience and understanding. Alzheimer’s disease involves a deterioration of the intellectual process, which can disrupt a patient’s ability to speak as well as hear and process information. This doesn’t mean that all communication is useless. Speaking to and expressing love to an Alzheimer’s patient is still very important. Consider some common communication frustrations and the effective way to deal with them.

Problem: A caregiver becomes irritated that a patient can’t follow what she is saying. The problem only seems to escalate the more the caretaker repeats herself and increases her volume.

Solution: Remember not to use complicated thoughts or ask questions with too many options if you don’t have to. The best way to communicate with a patient is to use short, literal sentences and simple words. Tone is also very important. A calm and gentle way of speaking always lets the patient know you are there to help.

Problem: A caregiver simplifies his sentences and speaks affectionately to his patient. But the patient is not responding well and seems to be getting angrier as the conversation goes on.

Solution: Be careful not to oversimplify your statement as if talking to the patient like he or she were a baby. You are still speaking to a full grown adult and some patients can pick up on a patronizing tone. The tone of voice should be compassionate, not schmaltzy.

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