Communicating with a loved one who has dementia can be a challenge, especially as memory loss and language difficulties progress. Asking the right questions can help stimulate aging adults’ cognitive facilities, encourage meaningful conversations, and provide insights into their well-being.
At Institute on Aging (IOA), we understand the particular difficulties of dementia. Timely and thoughtful questions lead to conversations that strengthen relationships between those with dementia and their caregivers, and we built our Companioa program to help provide the resources and space to facilitate this type of connection.
Memory Questions to Ask a Loved One with Dementia
Engaging in conversation with someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s provides mental stimulation that can keep them alert. Setting is key for these types of conversations, and a quiet, familiar space to ask questions is ideal.
Here are some helpful memory questions to ask a loved one with dementia:
- What do you enjoy doing most during the day?
- What are your favorite smells?
- What kind of animals do you like most?
- Do you prefer mountains or beaches?
- Do you prefer fall, winter, spring, or summer?
- What is your favorite type of music?
- If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go?
These questions can spark conversations and help keep loved ones with dementia engaged and connected with their families, surroundings, and day-to-day lives.
Questions to Ask Home Care Workers
If you’re seeking professional support, it’s essential to know the right questions to ask home care service providers to ensure the best fit and care for your loved one:
- What experience do you have with helping those with dementia?
- What do you do if someone in your care experiences night time confusion?
- How do you handle difficult behaviors or agitation?
- What strategies do you use to keep those with dementia engaged?
- How do you communicate with families about changes in health?
At IOA, we welcome these important questions. Our Home Care program has staff trained and dedicated to helping aging adults and their families find reliable relief and support.
We offer different access points to suit individual needs through programs like Companioa, or through daily activity programming held at our Enrichment Center in the Presidio.
The Power of Compassionate Communication in Dementia Care
Dementia care requires patience, empathy, along with consistent and open communication. Asking thoughtful questions can help keep loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer’s mentally stimulated and help maintain a sense of connection with their community.
At IOA, we understand that when a loved one receives a dementia diagnosis, it can feel daunting, and families seek guidance and support. While there is no single answer, building a strong network of compassionate caregivers, open channels of communication, and effective practices can profoundly impact their loved one’s quality of life.
