Caring for a person with dementia can be frustrating, exhausting and – sometimes – downright baffling. However, conflicts, arguments and distress can often be avoided simply by choosing your words carefully and knowing when to distract and deflect from subjects that can cause distress. Here are six things you should avoid saying to a person with dementia…

‘I just told you that’
It’s common for a person with dementia to repeatedly ask the same question – often in a short space of time. Frustrating as this is, it’s not their fault. Pointing out the fact you already answered them five minutes ago will only result in the person feeling insecure and inadequate, or even angry and frustrated. Stay calm and answer the question again, in the same patient manner as if it was the first time you’ve said it.

‘Do you remember when…?’
The person may not remember that time you went on holiday, or the lovely family meal last weekend. Don’t make them feel worse by asking them about it. I sadly took my late mother to her brother’s funeral in the mid-stages of her dementia. By the time she returned home, she’d forgotten the occasion altogether. She even asked where he was and when I pointed out we’d just attended his funeral, she naturally became distressed.

‘You’re not keeping on top of things’
Even if it’s obvious the person isn’t functioning well while they’re in the early to mid stages of dementia, they may not understand or accept the situation. My late mother lost the ability to prepare healthy meals, began living on a diet of tea and biscuits, neglected the housework and even let her personal hygiene slip. Yet she genuinely believed she was coping just fine. Pointing it out may just lead to arguments. Instead, make subtle changes or help behind the scenes, without turning it into a big deal.

‘No, that’s not correct’
A person with dementia has to work harder to process information and verbalise what they want to say. If you’re constantly correcting them when they misremember details, it’s likely to frustrate them and undermine their confidence. What does it really matter if they get a date wrong or interpret a past event incorrectly? Let it slide, go wth the flow and everyone will be happier.

‘Let’s get you undressed’
Even when help is needed with personal hygiene, no one would take kindly to having their clothes stripped off without their consent. In fact, it may well leave them feeling violated, even if you’re only trying to help. ‘Make sure the person feels comfortable,’ says Nicki Bones, Operations Director for SweetTree Home Care Services. ‘Cover the person up as much as possible. Let the person do as much as they can for themselves, rather than taking over. It should be a matter of negotiation and choice. Listen to what they truly want.’ My mother could manage to wash herself in the early stages, so I’d simply assist with fastening buttons. Support is key – but make sure it’s on their terms.

Joan died years ago’.
A person with dementia may get confused about who is dead or alive. When my mother first asked why my late father hadn’t returned home from work, I pointed out he’d died years before. This was a mistake, as I had to watch her grieve all over again. If the person asks for a deceased loved one, the mention of death can be distressing. Instead, perhaps comment on how heavy the traffic is, to allude to the fact they might be held up. Often it’s a momentary query – a change of subject usually works. This may sound superficial but if you can distract them by saying: ‘They are usually at work at this time’ or pointing out that the traffic is heavy and indicating they may have been delayed is usually very effective. In my view, you can justify a white lie if it’s in the best interests of the person and stops them from getting upset.