Avoid these 3 traps when talking to someone with dementia

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/avoid-these-3-traps-when-talking-to-someone-with-dementia-2018-11-23

By Morey Stettner
Nov. 30, 2018

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Different rules apply when you’re chatting with an individual who shows signs of dementia. If you’re unfamiliar with the disease, you may fall into traps that make matters worse.

Prepare to encounter speakers who repeat themselves (asking the same question every few minutes) and make illogical statements or faulty observations. Their emotions can swing wildly from moment to moment, leaving you wondering what could’ve triggered an angry outburst or crying spell.

If you’re a stickler for accuracy, it’s tempting to correct someone who misspeaks.

If you’re impatient, it’s easy to interrupt and steer the dialogue in the direction you deem most important.

If you’re offended by what you hear, it’s understandable if you take it personally and express disapproval.

Yet all three responses can backfire.

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