One of the biggest challenges of trying to care for a loved one with dementia is understanding what they're trying to say. You need to communicate with your loved one and understand them so that you know what their wishes are. However, patients with dementia sometimes have trouble expressing themselves. 

The following are six things to do if you're struggling to understand a loved one with dementia. 

Try to simplify any questions you're asking

If you're having problems understanding their answers to your questions, try to simplify your questions. When possible, break more complex questions down into simpler inquiries. Also, try to ask yes or no questions when possible. 

With simpler questions, it might be easier for both your loved one to understand you and for you to understand your loved one's response. 

Be patient

Getting impatient is going to make the situation worse. While communicating with a dementia patient can be frustrating, you can achieve understanding by being persistent and creative with trying different communication methods until you find a successful method for getting key information from your loved one. 

Consider trying again later

It's pretty common for dementia patients to be worse off one day and better the next. If you and your loved one are really struggling with communication, it might be best to just try to have the conversation a few hours later. Your loved one might just be tired and need to rest. 

Make sure there are no distractions around

One of the biggest causes of communication issues for dementia patients is distractions. A loved one who is suffering from dementia may have problems concentrating on the conversation if they are distracted by the surroundings. Get rid of distractions if there are any and try communicating again. 

Avoid bringing up multiple subjects at the same time

When it comes to communicating with a dementia patient, you should probably just try to discuss one subject at a time. Deep and complicated conversations could be difficult and tiring. Therefore, you should avoid stress and frustration for both yourself and your loved one by focusing on one important issue per conversation. 

Give your loved one adequate time to express himself or herself

If you're having trouble understanding your loved one, perhaps you simply need to give them more time to respond. It can take a long time for a dementia patient to finish their thought.

Make sure you're not rushing things and you're listening until your loved one is finished speaking to ensure clear communication. Keep these tips in mind, and contact a dementia care service if you are still having problems.

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