you have eye contact.
8. Speak to them like an adult.
A person who’s been around for many decades can be deeply embarrassed or offended by baby talk.
9. Share memories of your earlier life together.
Although people with Alzheimer’s may not remember what they had for dinner, they may have remarkably vivid memories of their life decades earlier.
10. Change the subject.
If your loved one becomes upset, try changing the subject, such as asking for help dusting or going for a walk. But, as the Family Caregiver Alliance notes, “It is important to connect with the person on a feeling level, before you redirect. You might say, ‘I see you’re feeling sad. I’m sorry you’re upset. Let’s go get something to eat.'”
11. Don’t take things personally.
If your loved one remains agitated or makes up outlandish stories (such as “you kidnapped me!”), don’t take it personally. They are just trying to express anxieties and make sense of chaos. Look for changes in their environment or daily routine that could be bothering them, gently correct their fanciful ideas, and use soothing words to calm them down.
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12. Listen carefully.
An Alzheimer’s patient may not be able to explain their deepest feelings and concerns, but they will give you clues. If they ask about doctor’s appointments every day, they may be afraid of exams. Constant references to a lost friend or spouse may be a sign that they are feeling especially lonely. A hug and some quiet talk may help.
13. Try humor.
Some people with Alzheimer’s maintain their ability almost until the latest stages of the disease to connect with you on a deep emotional level. Talk with them about your daily life and maintain a sense of humor (just not at your loved one’s expense). People with Alzheimer’s may be glad to laugh and joke with you.
14. Let them know they’re loved.
A woman whose father died of early onset Alzheimer’s recalls that even after her father no longer knew her name, he always responded when she told him she loved him. He would beam and say, as he had before he got the disease, “I love you, too, honey.” Sometimes he’d just smile and say, “That’s right.”