1. Dementia Slideshow Pictures
2. Alzheimer's Disease Slideshow Pictures
3. Take the Alzheimer's Quiz

Medical Author:

Norberto Alvarez, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Communicating with someone with Alzheimer's disease can be frustrating at times, for both you and your loved one. Understand that the person with AD is probably just as frustrated as you.

• Speak slowly and clearly.
  
  
• Use short, simple, familiar words.
  
  
• Maintain eye contact, using friendly facial expressions.
  
  
• Show that you are listening and trying to understand.
  
  
• Use a gentle, relaxed tone of voice and stay calm.
  
  
• Encourage the person to continue to communicate even if he or she is having a hard time.
  
  
• Be careful not to interrupt.
  
  
• Avoid criticizing, correcting, and arguing
  
  
• Always approach the person from the front, address him or her by name, and identify yourself if necessary.
  
  
• Break instructions into clear, simple steps.
  
  
• Ask one question at a time and allow enough time for an answer.
  
  
• Don't quiz the person, and don't react negatively if your loved one doesn't recognize something or someone.
  
  
• Point to objects or areas.
  
  
• Avoid talking about the person as if he or she weren't there.
  
  
• Be patient, flexible, and understanding.
  
  
• Remember that behavior changes such as aggression and combativeness are not your fault.

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