Politeness Training — Healthcare 2: Communicating with Dementia Patients BE

The specific language skills needed for compassionate, effective communication with residents living with dementia.

Language and dementia care

Communicating with someone who has dementia requires a different set of language skills — not simpler language, but more carefully chosen language. This exercise focuses on the specific approaches that reduce distress and build connection: validating rather than correcting, redirecting rather than confronting, and using the person's own frame of reference rather than insisting on factual accuracy.

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Choose the most natural-sounding response. LEVEL: Advanced

1. A resident insists it's 1965 and she needs to collect her children from school. What is the best response?
2. A resident becomes distressed when you try to correct a false belief. What should you do?
3. A resident repeatedly asks the same question. What is the most patient and effective response?
4. A resident is searching for something and becoming increasingly distressed. What is the best approach?
5. What communication approach is most effective when a resident with dementia becomes upset?
6. A resident refers to a deceased family member as if they are still alive. What is the most appropriate response?
7. Which phrase is more appropriate when helping a resident with dementia move from one place to another?
8. A resident accuses a staff member of stealing. What should you do?
9. A resident with dementia is calm at the moment. What is the best way to maintain that calm?
10. Which is the best way to introduce yourself to a resident who may not remember you?
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More exercises like this Politeness Training — Healthcare 1: Dignity in Care Politeness Training — Healthcare 3: Upset Families Browse all Healthcare exercises →
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