The main focus of unit 9 is dementia and communication with empathy.

By the end of this unit, you will be able to identify common symptoms of dementia, recognize typical communication challenges with patients with dementia, and apply strategies to enhance effective communication and patient care.

Dementia is a collective term for a range of cognitive impairments that interfere with daily life, often caused by neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.

1. Memory loss affecting daily activities
2. Difficulty understanding or following conversations
3. Disorientation to time and place
4. Reduced problem-solving ability
5. Changes in mood, personality or behaviour

Memory problems, confusion, difficulty concentrating, mood changes are symptoms in a few other conditions besides dementia

1. Infections
2. Depression
3. Vitamin deficiencies
4. Thyroid problems
5. Sleep disorders
6. Normal age-related changes
7. Chronic anxiety

Consider any experiences you have had interacting with individuals with dementia.

Reflect on the challenges they faced in communication and daily activities.

Dementia can impact communication by causing:

1. Word-finding difficulties: Patients may struggle to express themselves.
2. Repetitive speech or confusion: Patients may repeat words or phrases.
3. Difficulty understanding instructions: Complex or rapid speech can be overwhelming.
4. Withdrawal from conversations: Patients may avoid speaking due to frustration.Thyroid problems
5. Misinterpretation of non-verbal cues: Difficulty in recognizing facial expressions and tone of voice.

1. Adapting Verbal Communication
   • Speak slowly and clearly using simple words.
   • Use short, direct sentences.
   • Allow extra time for the patient to respond.
   • Repeat or rephrase information as needed.
2. Utilizing Non-Verbal Communication
   • Maintain eye contact and a calm demeanour.
   • Use gestures and visual aids to reinforce meaning.
   • Minimize background noise and distractions.
   • Offer reassurance through touch when appropriate.
3. Creating a Supportive Environment
   • Approach patients with patience and empathy.
   • Validate their feelings and acknowledge their emotions.
   • Establish a consistent routine to reduce confusion.
   • Encourage family involvement for personalized communication strategies.

• Arguing or correcting: It’s better to gently redirect the conversation or offer reassurance rather than correcting the patient.
• Overloading with information
• Using negative or forceful commands: Using negative language, such as “Don’t do that” or “Stop that,” or being forceful in your tone. Positive language and offering choices such as saying, “Would you like to do this instead?” is more effective.
• Avoiding eye contact: Not making eye contact can make a person feel disconnected or ignored.
• Assuming they understand without checking: Asking simple, yes-or-no questions or giving cues can help you assess their understanding.

1. What are some challenges you have observed in communicating with dementia patients?
2. How can you modify your communication style to improve interactions?
3. How would you support a colleague struggling to communicate with a dementia patient?

Effective communication with dementia patients requires patience, empathy, and adaptability. By understanding common symptoms and challenges, nursing students can improve patient interactions and enhance the quality of care provided.

• Do the exercises.
• Watch two illustrative videos on dementia communication strategies accompanying Simulation 9.
• Participate in Role-play Simulation 9 practicing dementia-friendly communication.
• Share reflections and key takeaways during debrief.