Three tips for healthcare professionals when meeting people with dementia

You probably already know this: people with dementia need healthcare professionals who meet them with calm, respect, and presence. Small adjustments in your approach can create a sense of safety and make a big difference – both for the person with dementia and for you as a professional.

1. Build connection: Take time to establish a relationship before starting the task. Smile, make eye contact, and introduce yourself clearly.
2. Be patient: Slow down – including your body language. Take one thing at a time and guide the person calmly through each step.
3. Speak clearly: Use short sentences, pause, and repeat if needed. Avoid jargon and adapt your communication so the person feels understood and respected.

Learn more about dementia

The National Dementia Knowledge Centre offers the following free online courses to promote a better understanding of how we can create a more dementia-friendly society, and to help you be better prepared when interacting with people living with dementia.

• Short course: “Dementia-Friendly Hospital” (20 minutes)
  Gain insight into what it’s like to be a patient with dementia or other cognitive impairments, and learn how to improve safety and comfort for this patient group.
• Extended course: “Dementia in Hospital” (2 hours – several modules)
  This course provides practical tools and communication tips for all healthcare professionals. It may also be relevant for pharmacists, even though they are not listed as a specific target group in the course description.