Although it can be difficult to engage with a family member who has dementia, the benefits from the deepened bonds that you can foster, as well as evoking fond memories and sense of self, greatly outweigh the challenges. Both you and your loved one can benefit from connecting through conversation, however, to do so, it’s critical to understand if there are certain topics off limits when speaking with a family member who has dementia.

With the help of a Centennial memory care facility, it can be better to leave certain topics undiscussed, while focusing on other themes that can benefit them. By understanding what topics should be left off limits, you can optimize conversations with your family members, protecting your relationship with them and supporting their mental well-being.

Dementia 101: Why Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid

Dementia is a mental condition that can seriously complicate emotional regulation, cognitive reasoning, and memory capabilities. This can cause sensitivity for people struggling with dementia when it comes to certain topics. Topics that are particularly complicated or involve engaging short-term memory can confuse dementia patients and lead to sadness or frustration. Prioritizing well-being, it’s important to approach conversations with care and empathy.

Topics You Should Generally Steer Clear From

Topics you can discuss with your loved one are obviously situational, dependent on factors like their current cognitive and mental state, as well as how far advanced their dementia is. There are, however, some topics that may not be a good idea to discuss, as they can evoke negative emotions, potentially impacting the relationship you have with your loved one.

You should avoid the following topics:

  • Current events. As dementia can cause a decrease in cognitive decline, enhancing difficulty to remember things that have happened recently, it’s generally advised to not speak about current events, especially if they are complex. For example, geopolitics, breaking news, or political debates might be better left undiscussed.
  • Plans. Talking about the future, such as medical decisions or long-term care, can stress out a dementia patient, especially if it implies any changes to their current routine. If it is necessary to have these discussions, be sure that you wait until a time when they are in a positive mental state and somewhere they feel comfortable and familiar before launching into the conversation.
  • Their cognitive state. Reminding any dementia patient that their cognitive state is declining can be particularly distressing and overwhelming. Therefore, it’s crucial to avoid reminding them of any lapses in memory or struggle with cognitive functioning. Their mental condition is one they have no control over, so feeling bad about it is a waste of time.
  • Depressing topics. If you remind your loved one repeatedly of the loss of a person, they have to relive that grief each time the topic is introduced. Be mindful of this when talking about any negative news, especially if you believe that your loved one may be having trouble remembering the event.

To redirect or avoid sensitive topics, it’s highly recommended to observe your loved ones’ reactions and respond accordingly. If they seem to be agitated or uncomfortable, steer the conversation towards a subject that is more neutral or brings a twinkle to their eye. Focus on positive past events to stimulate their long-term memory and improve the bond between you and them.

FAQs:

Q: Why Should I Be Careful About the Topics I Discuss With a Family Member Who Has Dementia?

A: You should be careful about topics you discuss with family members who have dementia, as they may face difficulties with comprehension and memory, in addition to regulating their emotions. As talking about certain things can unnecessarily spark distress, frustration, or confusion, it’s important to be mindful of the topics you bring up. By deliberately engaging with your loved one, you can foster positive emotions and deepen existing connections.

Q: Are There Specific Topics That Should Be Avoided With Someone Who Has Dementia?

A: While everyone is different when it comes to how they may cope with their disease and their level of mental impairment, when engaging with them, it’s generally recommended to avoid speaking about things that could cause distress or frustration. For example, avoid discussing any complicated matters that may be difficult to comprehend, distressing memories, or addressing their cognitive decline. Instead, focus on familiar and positive topics.

Q: Should I Avoid Talking About the Future With a Family Member Who Has Dementia?

A: When engaging with a family member who has dementia, it is generally not recommended to talk about future, such as those that touch on health development concerns or long-term care. These topics can lead to unnecessary frustration or distress. Therefore, it’s generally recommended to stay focused on the present or bring up familiar past topics that evoke positive feelings.

Q: Can I Talk About Current Events With a Family Member Who Has Dementia?

A: You can talk about current events with a family member who has dementia, however, it is recommended to choose topics that are familiar and lighthearted. By avoiding getting into discussing complex matters or negative news, you can help avoid suddenly confusing or frustrating your loved one. Be sure to tailor the conversation to what they’re interested in and what they can comprehend.

Q: Is It OK to Remind Someone With Dementia About Their Memory Loss?

A: It’s not OK to remind someone who has dementia about their declining health conditions. By bringing up memory issues, you can make a person feel sad or embarrassed in a situation where they are powerless to do anything about their situation. Therefore, you should instead engage in conversations that center on positive, familiar topics and that avoid pointing fingers at any shortcomings or mistakes.

Gift Your Loved One Living With Dementia the Long Term Care They Deserve

If your loved one is struggling with the challenges of dementia, you’re likely feeling hopeless and unsure about the steps you can take to help them. At Rocky Mountain Assisted Living, our dedicated staff is highly qualified and has extensive experience helping residents thrive and do what they enjoy while managing their condition. Contact us today to start learning more about how you can provide optimal care for your loved one at our facilities.