A clear explanation of what happens to communication as dementia progresses and strategies for communicating more effectively

Losing the ability to communicate can be a frustrating and difficult experience for people with dementia, their families and carers. As the disease progresses, the person with dementia may find it increasingly difficult to express themselves clearly, and to understand what others say.

Written with both family and professional carers in mind, this book clearly explains what happens to communication as dementia progresses, how this may affect an individual's memory, language and senses, and how carers might need to adapt their approach as a result. Advocating a person-centred approach to dementia care, the author describes methods of verbal and non-verbal communication, techniques for communicating with people who can not speak or move easily, and strategies for communicating more effectively in specific day-to-day situations, including at mealtimes, whilst helping the person with dementia to bathe or dress, and whilst out and about. Exercises at the end of each chapter encourage the carer to reflect on their learning and apply it to their own circumstances, and guidelines for creating a life story with the person with dementia as a means of promoting good communication are also included.

This concise, practical book is essential reading for family caregivers, professional care staff, and all those who work with, or who are training to work with, people with dementia.

"This practical book to assist people caring for those with dementia. It covers the brain and its effect on language and behaviour in people with dementia. It talks about person-centred care and the need to be flexible to individual needs rather than apply a "one size fits all" approach... easy to read and practical... I would definitely recommend this book to anyone working in the field of dementia, whether in a paid capacity or as a friend or family member." - Aotearoa New Zealand Social Work