Dementia can pose challenges by changing the way a person communicates. Repetition, confusion, and inappropriate language are just a few examples of what caregivers may face. Today, we would like to share some curated content from past episodes that our audience has found to be the most useful—in developing techniques, and perhaps a fresh perspective, to connect with our loved ones in the face of dementia. 

Choosing Kindness

Alex Morris, gerontologist and geriatric care manager, then goes on to offer practical and compassionate strategies for coping with a common issue challenging Alzheimer’s caregivers: repetitive behavior.

I Repeat

Bringing up difficult topics—such as time to retire from driving, or the need for a medical evaluation for a physical or cognitive decline—can be especially challenging in the context of dementia. Here are some pointers from Alex Morris on how to navigate these conversations. 

Conversations

Communication tools and techniques are the topic of a Bob’s Last Marathon roundtable with Felicia Greenfield of the Penn Memory Center, Stefanie Bonigut, a social worker specializing in Alzheimer’s care, and Katie Brandt of the Massachusetts General Hospital Frontotemporal Disorders Unit.  

Communication Tools & Techniques

Alexandra Morris
Geriatric Care Manager

Felicia Greenfield, MSW, LCSW
Executive Director
Penn Memory Center
www.pennmemorycenter.org

Stefanie Bonigut, LCSW

Katherine Diane Brandt
Director of Caregiver Support Services and Public Relations 
Massachusetts General Hospital Frontotemporal Disorders Unit 
www.loveisoutthereftd.org
www.ftd-boston.org