Communication Do’s and Don’ts for Dementia

Simple ways to communicate with more ease, clarity, and respect.

Don’ts:

• Don’t highlight their need for help or emphasize the diagnosis

• Don’t correct or contradict them — avoid words like “no” and “but”

• Don’t remind them that someone they love has died

• Don’t make the conversation about your role or their dependence on you

• Don’t say “Don’t you remember?” — instead, gently reminisce: “How about that time…”

• Don’t infantilize (avoid terms like “honey” or “good girl”)

• Don’t argue or try to convince them they’re wrong

Do instead:

• Speak clearly, slowly, and in short sentences

• Choose a quiet, one-on-one environment

• Make eye contact, smile, and stay relaxed

• Offer gentle reassurance (a light touch, if appropriate)

• Keep it simple — one topic at a time

• Allow extra time for responses and processing

• Redirect away from topics that may cause distress

• Remember: they’re not giving you a hard time — they’re having a hard time