• Take a moment to think about what you're going to say and calm yourself.
• Wait until a quiet time when there are no distractions.
• Have the person's full attention with good eye contact.
• Try to speak clearly, calmly, and a bit slower than usual.
• Short, basic phrases and sentences are best.
• Keep the conversation light-hearted.
• Including the person in conversations with others helps minimize any possible feelings of isolation.
• Think of a positive way to say what you need to say.
• Lots of pointed questions can cause frustration.
• Offering two choices is better than offering too many options.
• Be sensitive to the person's feelings that may be behind what they are saying.
• Listen and encourage.
• Tune into the person's body language and facial expressions so you can determine how they are really feeling.
• Pay attention to your body language. Try to project calmness and patience.
• If you are slightly below their eye level the person may feel more in control.
• Use physical contact such as holding or patting the person's hand or putting your arm around them.

This information should not be taken as medical advice. Always check with a doctor if you have questions about dementia or memory loss.

For more information, please refer to the full article on the Alzheimer's website.