People with Alzheimer’s lose particular communication abilities during the early, middle, and late stages of the disease. Here’s what to expect and what kinds of communication challenges can occur during each stage of Alzheimer’s:
Early Stage Alzheimer’s
Increased concentration may be required to follow conversations Trouble staying on topic More time may be required to formulate verbal responses to questions Increased frustration Difficulty finding the right word, at times May lose a train of thought more often than before symptoms began
Middle Stage Alzheimer’s
Difficulty understanding long conversations Difficulty understanding reading material Decreased ability to interpret facial expressions Trouble explaining abstract concepts Decreased vocal expression and ability to raise or lower voice Difficulty finishing sentences Apathy, including reduced interest in communication May speak in vague and rambling sentences
Late Stage Alzheimer’s
Inability to understand the meaning of most wordsProblems realizing when being addressedDiminished use of proper grammarIn some cases, the person may become totally mute
If you’re a caregiver, try to remember that although your loved one may appear uninterested in communicating, it could be that the disease has simply made him or her incapable of showing a desire to communicate. That is why it’s crucial to always strive for meaningful communication with your loved one at every stage of the disease.
-Edited by Esther Heerema, MSW
