How to Talk to Someone with Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s and dementia affect the brain in ways that can make everyday conversations challenging. As the disease progresses, processing language and responding to complex sentences becomes harder, leaving many caregivers and loved ones unsure of how to communicate effectively.

In this article, we’ll explain why this approach works and share practical examples of communicating with kindness and using fewer words without losing connection.

Shorter, More Direct Sentences Can Help

The good news? Minor adjustments in how you speak can make a big difference. Short, clear sentences reduce confusion, making it easier for the person to understand and engage with you. You create a calmer, more supportive conversation by simplifying your words and focusing on one idea at a time.

Communication Changes When Someone Has Alzheimer’s

When someone has Alzheimer’s or dementia, changes in their brain cause a decline in their ability to listen and respond to normal conversation.

So, that might leave you wondering how to talk to someone with Alzheimer’s.

It turns out that speaking in short, direct sentences is a more comfortable way for them to communicate. 

With less information to process, they’re more likely to understand what you’re saying and respond appropriately.

We explain why this technique works and share four real-life examples of communicating kindly while using fewer words.

Why Do Short Sentences Work Better in Dementia?

Alzheimer’s and dementia affect the brain’s ability to process and retrieve information. 

That can make it very difficult for someone with dementia to listen, understand, and respond appropriately to normal conversation.

That’s why using short, direct sentences with only one thought per sentence is recommended.

It makes it easier for someone with dementia to understand what you’re saying. Long or complex thoughts can be overwhelming because they're too much to process.

This technique might feel strange initially because we’re used to using friendly conversation to fill the silence, let someone know what’s happening, or show that we care. 

However, combining fewer words with a warm and positive tone will be less frustrating for seniors with dementia and will be just as kind.

How to talk to someone with Alzheimer’s: 4 real-life examples

Each person with Alzheimer's or dementia is different and will have a different level of cognitive impairment. 

Use these 4 examples as a starting point and experiment to find what works best for both your older adult and you in different situations.

Example 1: It’s time for your older adult to use the restroom
DO say: It’s time to go to the bathroom now.

DON’T say: It's been about an hour since you last visited the bathroom so why don’t we go to the bathroom and you can give it a try. Ok? How does that sound? Do you want to go to the bathroom now?

Example 2: It’s time for your older adult to have lunch
DO say: Mmmmm, it’s time to eat spaghetti!…(pause)…Let’s go to the kitchen.

DON’T say, “Are you hungry?” It’s lunchtime, and I thought you’d enjoy one of your favorites—spaghetti.​ Let's go to the kitchen so you can eat. After lunch, we'll go outside for a walk so you can get some fresh air. How does that sound?

Example 3: You’re taking your older adult to a doctor appointment
DO say: It’s time to go out…(pause)…Here’s your jacket…(pause)…Let’s get into the car.

DON’T say: We’re going to see Dr. Lee today. She’s going to check to see how you’re doing with those new medications. Remember how we had to reschedule the appointment from last month? I’m glad she had an opening this soon. You know what? It’s a little chilly today, why don’t you put on your jacket while I get the keys and then we’ll go out to the car together.

Example 4: A family member or friend has come to visit
DO say: It’s Mike, your brother…(pause)…He’s come to say hello!

DON’T say: Oh look, you have a visitor! Do you know who that is? Mike was just here last week. Don’t you remember?

Recommended for you:

• Therapeutic Fibbing: Why Experts Recommend Lying to Someone with Dementia
• Do’s and Don’ts for Visiting Someone with Alzheimer’s
• When Someone with Alzheimer’s Says I Want to Go Home: 3 Ways to Respond

About the Author

Connie Chow

Connie was a hands-on caregiver for her grandmother for 20 years. (Grandma made it to 101 years old!) She knows how challenging, overwhelming, and all-consuming caring for an older adult can be. She also knows how important support is — especially in the form of practical solutions, valuable resources, and self-care tips.