Dementia & Alzheimer’s Tips

Never Argue or Correct: If your loved one believes they are in a different year or waiting for a deceased spouse, do not correct them. This causes unnecessary distress. Instead, practice “validation therapy”—acknowledge their feelings and gently redirect the conversation.

Keep It Simple: Use short, simple sentences. Ask one question at a time and offer clear, limited choices (e.g., “Would you like tea or coffee?” rather than “What do you want to drink?”).

Non-Verbal Cues: Maintain eye contact, use a calm and reassuring tone of voice, and utilize gentle physical touch to convey affection and safety.

Prevent Wandering: Install locks higher or lower on exterior doors where they are less visible. Consider a GPS tracking device or an alarm system that chimes when a door is opened.

Minimize Fall Risks: Remove tripping hazards and ensure the home is brightly lit. Shadows and dark areas can cause visual hallucinations or confusion.

Secure Hazards: Lock away cleaning supplies, medications, and sharp objects. Disable the stove if cooking independently is no longer safe.