Tips on dealing with word finding troubles

Sep 12

When someone with dementia experiences difficulty finding the right words, it can be frustrating for both them and their family. Here are some practical tips, actions, and recommendations to help make communication easier and more supportive when word-finding becomes a challenge:

1. Be Patient and Give Them Time

Avoid rushing them: Give them plenty of time to find the words they want to use without interrupting or finishing their sentences for them.
Stay calm and relaxed: Show patience and understanding, as rushing or showing frustration can make them more anxious and worsen the word-finding problem.
Pause for them to gather their thoughts: If they are struggling, pause and give them a moment to gather their thoughts without pressuring them.

2. Encourage Non-Verbal Communication

Use gestures and facial expressions: Encourage them to use gestures, pointing, or facial expressions if they can't find the right words. You can also use hand gestures or visual cues to help them communicate.
Offer yes/no questions: When they seem stuck, ask yes/no or simple questions that require short responses. This reduces the pressure to search for specific words.
Use pictures or objects: Use photos, drawings, or objects to help convey what they want to say. For example, if they’re trying to talk about an object, show them the item or a picture of it.

3. Gently Help with Words When Needed

Offer cues or suggestions: If they are really struggling, offer a word or phrase to help them along. For example, you can say, “Are you looking for the word ‘cup’?” If they confirm, move on without focusing on the difficulty.
Fill in the blanks carefully: If they start a sentence but can’t finish it, gently help by offering a possible ending. Be careful not to take over the conversation.
Rephrase their sentences: Repeat what you think they’re trying to say in a simplified or clear manner. For instance, if they say “thing for drink,” you could say, “Do you mean the cup?”

4. Create a Relaxing Communication Environment

Limit distractions: Make sure the environment is quiet and calm, as too much noise or activity can make it harder for them to focus on finding the right words.
Sit face-to-face: Make eye contact and use body language to show you’re engaged and listening. This can help ease their frustration and encourage communication.
Use a soothing tone: Maintain a calm and gentle tone of voice. Even if they can’t find the words, they will likely pick up on your tone and body language.

5. Use Short, Simple Sentences

Keep communication simple: Speak in short, clear sentences. Avoid using complex language or giving too much information at once, as this can overwhelm them.
Ask one question at a time: If asking questions, keep them direct and easy to answer, such as “Do you want coffee or tea?” instead of “What would you like to drink?”
Repeat or rephrase if necessary: If they don’t understand what you’ve said, try rephrasing the sentence instead of repeating it exactly the same way.

6. Focus on Familiar Topics

Talk about familiar subjects: Engage them in conversations about topics they know well, such as family, hobbies, or past experiences. Familiarity makes it easier for them to find words.
Use reminiscing tools: Photos, music, or objects from the past can trigger memories and help them find words related to personal experiences.
Encourage storytelling: Ask them about their favorite memories, which may allow them to access words they are more comfortable with, reducing frustration.

7. Avoid Correcting or Criticizing

Don’t criticize mistakes: If they say the wrong word or struggle to express themselves, avoid correcting them or pointing out errors. Instead, try to understand their meaning and continue the conversation.
Let minor mistakes slide: If they misname something or use the wrong word but you still understand, avoid making a big deal out of it. For example, if they say "chair" instead of "sofa," respond without focusing on the mistake.
Encourage effort, not perfection: Focus on the conversation as a whole, praising their efforts to communicate rather than whether or not every word is correct.

8. Provide Written or Visual Support

Use written cues: If speaking is difficult, encourage them to write down what they’re trying to say, even if it’s just a word or two. Writing can sometimes come more easily than speaking.
Use word and picture cards: Create simple cards with words or pictures on them to help spark memory and conversation. For example, cards showing food items, family members, or daily activities can be useful conversation aids.
Create a communication board: A board with pictures or words representing common topics, needs, or emotions can be a helpful reference tool when they’re struggling to find words.

9. Offer Positive Reinforcement

Acknowledge their efforts: When they find the right word or successfully express themselves, offer positive reinforcement. Simple phrases like “Great job” or “You found the word!” can encourage them to keep trying.
Stay supportive: Even if the conversation is difficult, offer emotional support through smiling, nodding, or gentle touch to show that you’re there for them.
Keep a positive atmosphere: Ensure that your tone and body language remain positive, even when communication breaks down.

10. Consider Cognitive Therapies

Speech therapy: If word-finding becomes a significant challenge, consulting a speech therapist who specializes in dementia can help. Therapists can provide exercises and strategies tailored to their specific language needs.
Language-based games and activities: Engage them in simple word games, such as matching words to pictures or identifying objects. Games that stimulate cognitive function and language can be both enjoyable and helpful.
Practice word-finding activities: Encourage them to describe objects around the house or recall names of familiar people. This type of practice can help maintain language skills.

11. Adjust Your Expectations

Adapt to their changing needs: Understand that as dementia progresses, their ability to communicate will change. Be prepared to adapt your communication style over time to better meet their needs.
Celebrate small successes: Even if they struggle with certain words, celebrate the moments when they can successfully communicate. Focus on the connection, not perfection.

By using these strategies, you can create an environment that makes communication less frustrating and more supportive for someone with dementia who is struggling to find words. Patience, understanding, and a calm approach are key to maintaining open, meaningful communication.

Source: Alzheimer’s Society

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