Dementia communication advice
What is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when a part of the brain loses its blood supply. This can cause brain cells to die. The impact of Stroke can vary depending on the part of the brain it has happened in, and the individual person.
For more information about Stroke, please visit: Stroke Association: Stroke information and support webpage
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a collection of symptoms caused by various brain-related conditions. Stroke can be a cause of Dementia (Vascular Dementia). These conditions damage brain cells or their connections, leading to changes in cognitive function affecting memory, thinking, and reasoning, beyond what’s expected with normal aging.
For more information on Dementia, please visit: Where You Live Matters: Dementia caregivers toolbox webpage
Communication changes
Damage to the brain can affect how someone communicates. Some examples are:
- saying a lot of information but not conveying much meaning
- difficulty concentrating on tasks or conversation topics
- difficulty remembering old or new information
- word finding difficulties
- problems understanding words
- problems expressing thoughts and feelings.
For more information on communication changes, please visit: Stroke Association: Aphasia and dementia webpage
Life story work
Life story work involves helping people to record aspects of their past and present lives along with future hopes and wishes. This can support conversation, memory and wellbeing.
If you would like some help getting started, you can use the template below:
Communication tips
Tips for conversation
- Use hearing aids and glasses if needed
- Reduce noise and distractions
- Face the person and gain their attention
- Use gestures, drawings, or objects to help understanding
Tips for you
- Describe or draw the word you’re looking for
- ‘Show’ rather than tell, if you are unable to get your message across verbally
- Take breaks if you feel frustrated
- Ask others to speak slowly or write things down
- Think about what helps you in conversation
Tips for others
These tips help you support someone with Dementia or Stroke who has communication difficulties.
- Use visual aids like photos, gestures, or drawings.
- Keep choices simple, offer 2 or 3 options.
- Write things down (for example, calendars, notes).
- Give time to speak and process information.
- Avoid memory-testing questions.
- Respect feelings and reality.
- Include the person in conversations.
- Let them lead the conversation, even if unclear.
- Ask how they prefer to be supported.
For more communication tips, please visit the Leeds Community Healthcare: Communication in Dementia information page.
Social and support groups
Being involved in social activities can support communication and wellbeing, helping you and your loved ones to stay well.
In Leeds there is a range of activities and support groups available. These change from time to time so the best way to receive up to date information is to visit the websites below directly.
- Visit the Leeds Gov: Dementia for local services and carer support.
- MindWell: Alzheimer’s Society Leeds
- Visit the Alzheimer’s Society: Find support near you webpage for activity + social groups.
Useful resources
Communication and swallow changes can change over time. For future communication or swallowing support please contact your GP for a referral to the Speech and Swallowing team.
