28/01/2026
When Words Fade: Understanding Aphasia in Dementia ๐ง ๐ฌ
Communication changes in dementia can be one of the most heartbreaking shifts for both the person living with it and their loved ones. Aphasia - a language disorder that affects speaking, understanding, reading, or writing - is a common part of this journey.
Imagine knowing exactly what you want to say, but the words feel trapped. Or hearing someone speak, but their sentences sound like a puzzle you canโt solve. This isnโt a loss of intelligence - itโs a loss of access to language.
What you might notice:
- Mixing up words or using the wrong ones
- Speaking in short, fragmented sentences
- Repeating a single word or phrase
- Struggling to find any words at all
- Withdrawing from conversation out of frustration or exhaustion
How to connect with compassion:
๐ฃ๏ธ Speak slowly and simply โ Use clear, short sentences and give time to respond.
๐๏ธ Pay attention to non-verbal cues โ A look, a gesture, or tone of voice can say more than words.
โ
Offer gentle choices โ โWould you like tea or juice?โ instead of โWhat do you want to drink?โ
๐ค Validate their emotions โ โI can see this is frustrating. Iโm here with you.โ
๐ Use other forms of communication โ Pictures, gestures, touch, or music can bridge the gap when words fail.
Remember: The person is still there, even when language fades. Your patience, presence, and willingness to listen beyond words are powerful gifts.
๐ฌ Have you found a way to communicate when words are hard? Share your experience below to support other families.
