Communicating Beyond Words: 6 Dementia Communication Techniques

Alzheimers is the most common type of dementia and occurs when plaques and bundles of proteins build up between nerve cells in the brain, ultimately causing brain cell death. Individuals often experience confusion, memory loss and inability to care for themselves. The disease is physically degenerative and is often mentally and emotionally draining on both the individual with the disease, as well as family members around them. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimers, you likely have a lot of questions. At BrightStar Care, our team has experience in working with clients and families dealing with Alzheimers and want to help you better understand the road ahead.Causes & Diagnosis of AlzheimersWhen caring for a loved one with dementia, knowledge and understanding of their condition can be invaluable. Although every case of Alzheimers disease is unique, there are some commonalities in terms of causes, symptoms and general prognoses.What causes Alzheimers?For people diagnosed with Alzheimers, the exact timeline, symptoms and primary causes will vary. There are many possible causes of Alzheimers disease that include genetic, environmental and/or lifestyle factors. Diet, sleep patterns and a lack of both cognitive and physical exercise may all play a role in the causes of Alzheimers.What is the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia?Dementia is not a disease itself, but rather a group of symptoms that impact brain functionality caused by various diseases and conditions. Alzheimers disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of dementia cases.What is the 12-question test for Alzheimers? The 12-question test for dementia, also known as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), is a clinical tool used to evaluate cognitive impairment. It assesses several cognitive functions including memory, orientation to time and place, language abilities, and calculation skills. By asking a series of 12 questions, healthcare providers can gauge a person's cognitive status and help determine the likelihood of dementia.Alzheimers Symptoms & PrognosisThe earliest detectable signs of Alzheimers include memory trouble, apathy and depression. People in the early stages of Alzheimers might have problems completing familiar tasks or misplace things and be unable to retrace their steps. As the disease progresses, more severe symptomsincluding impaired communication, poor judgment and disorientationmay emerge. Each individuals experience with Alzheimers is unique. Your doctor and medical team can help you better understand your condition, symptoms and any treatment options as they relate to you. What are the symptoms of Alzheimers?Alzheimers is most commonly characterized by mental confusion and forgetfulness. Some common tell-tale behaviors are forgetting familiar names, getting lost in familiar places, and an inability to complete routine tasks.How can I tell the difference between Alzheimers and typical signs of aging?While forgetfulness and confusion are associated with Alzheimers, these symptoms also accompany normal aging. So, how can you tell the difference? The Alzheimers Association lists memory loss as a challenge that disrupts daily life, challenges in planning or solving problems, and difficulty completing familiar tasks. They also differentiate these symptoms from the milder signs of normal cognitive decline. For instance, while a normal older adult might occasionally struggle to balance their checkbook or forget an important name or date and then remember it later, these difficulties are more persistent or extreme for an Alzheimers sufferer.For example, occasionally losing your keys or forgetting what you had for breakfast that morning is common among older adults. However, a person with Alzheimers may show even more pronounced lapses in memory. For instance, they may not only lose their keys, but also completely forget what keys are for, showing a stark decline in cognitive connections. Whats the typical Alzheimers prognosis? For people diagnosed with Alzheimers, the exact timeline, symptoms, and severity of their disease can vary. However, the trajectory of the disease tends to flow through seven distinct phases, originally outlined by Dr. Barry Reisberg of New York University.The arc generally begins with symptoms similar to those of normal aging, proceeds through gradually worsening stages that can include difficulty with simple arithmetic and forgetting personal details, and ends with severe decline typified by the inability to swallow.Early stages: Early-stage Alzheimers typically includes mild decline, such as difficulty in finding the right word during conversation, losing personal possessions and having trouble remembering familiar names. At this stage, family members can typically manage care for their afflicted loved one.  Middle stages: This period is marked by moderate decline in mental faculties, including poor short-term memory, inability to manage personal finances, difficulty dressing or grooming and significant confusion. In these stages, a person with Alzheimers may need occasional in-home care or nursing services.Late stages: In the final stages, severe decline is present, including inability to recognize familiar faces, inability to remember personal details, loss of bladder control and major personality changes. Individuals at this stage either relocate to a residential facility or have a full-time in-home caregiver.Is there a cure for Alzheimers? Theres no known cure for Alzheimers, only treatments that can ease symptoms. The FDA has approved two types of medications (cholinesterase inhibitors, such as Aricept, Exelon, and Razadyne, and memantine, found in Namenda) that diminish mental confusion, memory loss, and other cognitive symptoms, but these do not reverse the underlying causes.Recent research and clinical trials have made potential breakthroughs with immunotherapy treatments and monoclonal antibodies. Many also suggest herbal supplements like gingko biloba and coenzyme Q10, but these lack confirmation through clinical trials. Additionally, non-drug interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy as well as caregiver support programs can improve quality of life, especially in early stages. Alzheimers Prevention and Management Understanding the nature of Alzheimers and how to manage it can positively impact families affected by this disease. Having accurate information about risk factors, early warning signs and how to manage each stage of Alzheimers can help support family caregivers throughout the progression of the disease. How can I prevent Alzheimers? There are no proven ways to completely prevent Alzheimers. As with many degenerative illnesses, a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced diet, and effective sleep habits, may help lower the risk of developing Alzheimers. Research has shown a correlation between high blood pressure and high cholesterol and the incidence of the disease. Doctors recommend getting these numbers to a healthy level, not only for Alzheimers prevention but for general good health.There are a variety of ways to maintain good brain health that can also work toward a lower likelihood of Alzheimers disease. Regular social interaction, brain stimulating activities such as puzzles and learning new skills, and managing stress levels can help maintain cognitive health. Certain forms of physical exercise can also support brain health such as walking, swimming and strength training. Is Alzheimer's hereditary?There are rare familial forms of dementia caused by genetic mutations such as familial Alzheimers disease, frontotemporal dementia and familial vascular dementia, which are more likely to occur in people under the age of 65. However, research shows that most cases of Alzheimers are not linked to genetics.How prevalent is Alzheimer's?Before the age of 65, only 1 out of every 1,000 people develop dementia. The chance of having the condition rises sharply with age to 1 person in 20 over the age of 65. Over the age of 80, this figure increases to 1 person in 5.How does Alzheimer's disease progress over time?Alzheimers is a degenerative disease that progresses in stages from mild to moderate to severe. The disease usually starts with mild symptoms such as increasing forgetfulness, then progresses to general confusion and disorientation. Finally, Alzheimers patients end up with severe symptoms, such as an inability to communicate or care for themselves.Caregiver Support for Alzheimers Disease Caring for a loved one with Alzheimers disease can be difficult from both a physical and emotional perspective. Family caregivers can benefit from trusted resources to help them more effectively communicate with their loved one with Alzheimers. Having the right resources and information can help them learn to manage difficult behaviors like agitation and wandering and ensure safety and fall prevention in the home. At BrightStar Care, we can help connect you with resources to support family caregivers, including support groups, education and training. For those with family members in the early stages of Alzheimers, we offer respite care to help give you a much-needed break. And as their condition progresses, our team can match you with compassionate, qualified memory care professionals. Reach out today and let us know how we can help.To learn more please contact us at 303-300-6666.

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimers or another form of dementia is emotionally and physically demanding. Over 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for someone living with these progressive conditions, often sacrificing their own well-being along the way. If youve reached a point where professional support is needed, exploring memory care in Pittsburgh can be a powerful step toward ensuring your loved ones safety and quality of life.But not all memory care communities are alike. From the atmosphere and staff training to medical oversight and amenities, the right environment can make all the difference in your loved ones day-to-day experience.Heres a practical guide to help you evaluate memory care options in the Pittsburgh area with confidence.Understanding the Role of Memory CareMemory care is a specialized form of assisted living tailored to individuals with Alzheimers, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. These communities provide: 24/7 support from trained caregivers Secure environments to prevent wandering Structured daily routines Activities designed to promote cognitive function and engagement A diagnosis like Alzheimers often requires care beyond what family members can provide alone. Memory care helps bridge the gap with professional, compassionate support.Key Features to Evaluate When Touring Memory Care Communities1. Staff Experience and Dementia-Specific TrainingWhen it comes to Alzheimers and dementia care, the qualifications of the caregiving team matter. Ask: Are team members Certified Dementia Practitioners (CDPs)? What is the staff-to-resident ratio? How long have key staff been with the community? Experienced, consistent caregivers are more likely to build trust with residents and recognize subtle changes in health or behavior. Look for staff who demonstrate both professionalism and empathy.2. Clean, Comfortable, and Secure EnvironmentDoes the space feel calm, clean, and welcoming? Look for communities that offer: Clear walking paths and secured outdoor areas Wayfinding cues and calming design elements Clean dining rooms, cozy lounges, and thoughtfully furnished private rooms During your tour, observe how residents interact with staff and each other. A warm, relaxed atmosphere often signals good care behind the scenes.3. Personalized Care Plans and On-Site Medical SupportMemory care isnt one-size-fits-all. Quality communities take time to understand each residents personal story, preferences, and stage of cognitive decline. Ask: How are care plans created and updated? Is on-site nursing available 24/7? What procedures are in place for medical emergencies? Knowing that your loved ones needs will be met not just today, but as their condition progresses, offers priceless peace of mind.4. Engaging Life Enrichment ProgramsPeople living with Alzheimers and dementia benefit from structured, meaningful activities. Look for programs that include: Music therapy and art projects Sensory activities and memory games Gentle exercise and stretching Spiritual or religious offerings Group meals and special events Engagement promotes connection, reduces agitation, and helps residents maintain a sense of purpose.5. Reputation, Licensing, and TransparencyA facilitys track record speaks volumes. Do your homework: Read recent reviews from families Ask for inspection reports and licenses Schedule an in-person tour (and follow your instincts) In Pennsylvania, assisted living and memory care communities are regulated at the state level. You can check inspection history through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.6. Transportation, Dining, and Additional AmenitiesQuality of life goes beyond medical care. Consider: Is transportation provided to doctors appointments or outings? Are meals nutritious, flexible, and tailored to dietary needs? Is there a beauty salon, library, or garden on-site? Little details like choosing mealtimes or enjoying a favorite hobby can make your loved one feel at home.Final Thoughts: Youre Not Alone in This DecisionChoosing a memory care community is a deeply personal journey. Whether your loved one is in the early stages of Alzheimers or has more advanced dementia, the goal is the same: ensuring they are supported, safe, and surrounded by compassionate professionals who understand their unique needs.If you're beginning the search for memory care in Pittsburgh, were here to help. Our memory care and assisted living community is designed to provide peace of mind, connection, and expert support for both residents and the families who love them. Learn more about our memory care services and how we support families facing Alzheimers and dementia care decisions.

Dont Wait: Why End-of-Life Conversations Cant Be Put Off According to an article by Johns Hopkins Medicine, two-thirds of Americans dont have a living will or advance directive. Planning ahead can help reduce stress and uncertainty for both seniors and their loved ones. A lot of people dont know what an advance directive is, says Lectoria Byron, a social worker with our Mobile, Alabama program. So, its giving them that knowledgeinforming them of exactly what it is and how it can help them. That eases a lot of anxiety. We sat down with Lectoria and Registered Nurse & Case Manager Amanda Albright to find out why these decisions matter and how the PACE care model fosters them. What is an advance directive and why does it matter? An advance directive is a legal document that explains what kind of medical care you want if you cant speak for yourself. It usually has two main parts: A living will, which says what treatments you do or dont want.A durable power of attorney for healthcare, which names someone you trust to make medical choices for you. Imagine for yourself, Amanda says. Someone you love deeply is in crisis because somethings happened to youand they cant find your funeral plans, your bank statements, or your healthcare wishes. They wont have time to grieve because theyre forced to focus on the paperwork and decisions that could have already been made. How does PACE help with these difficult conversations? Both Lectoria and Amanda emphasized education and pre-planning as the biggest ways their team offers support. Lectoria and the other care team members talk about advance directives during check-ins that happen twice a year. We break it up into manageable steps so its not overwhelming, Lectoria says. In Alabama, we have a basic form that requires two signatures and two witnesses, and we help guide participants through it. If a participant requires legal guardianship or their request involves filing documentation in court, we help connect them with resources like free legal aid, Lectoria adds. She said the best way to approach the conversation is to keep it simple. When you dont work directly with death or dying, its hard to know how to begin, Lectoria explains. But it doesnt take special training. You start by asking: Do you know what an advance directive is? A living will? A power of attorney? Then we offer information and ask: What are your wishes? PACE also provides brochures and other educational materials to help participants review their options in their own time. Checking in every six months ensures these decisions remain a priority. What is the advantage of a participant having their PACE team facilitate the conversation? The PACE team consists of a primary care physician, skilled nurse, social worker, physical therapist, recreation therapist, occupational therapist, and a chaplain.   Amanda explains, The team approach keeps any one staff member from carrying all the emotional weight. And the participant hears a consistent message from different perspectiveseach member offering their own short summary or advice. That consistency builds trust and understanding. It gives a lot of credibility, Amanda says. PACEs structure also allows for something rare in modern healthcare: time. Were not seeing 16 patients an hour, Amanda says. We have the privilege to slow down and help people understand. That makes all the difference. Planning ahead for your care isnt just about filling out formsits about showing love, respect, and helping everyone feel more at peace. At PACE, were here to support you and your family through every part of aging, even the tough conversations.  To find out more about Mercy LIFE and their innovative care program for Seniors, contact them at 251-287-8427.