If you’re looking for a way to communicate with someone with dementia, knowing about their interests, past hobbies and career can help.

Samantha Holland with the Alzheimer’s Society of Manitoba said arranging activities should play on a person’s lasting strengths, but provide a challenge so they are using different parts of their brain.

She provides examples here.

“They could be creative like painting, flower arranging and woodworking while other activities might use some sensory engagement like a hand massage with some nice smelling cream or listening to the person’s favourite music.”  

Holland says we should remember that verbal communication makes up only 5 to 7 per cent of our communications and that the rest is non-verbal.

When those with dementia lose their words, body language, tones and visual cues can fill in the gaps.

For the full interview with Holland, tune in to Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10 this afternoon.