Though signs of dementia can be difficult to identify early on, there may be certain red flags that can tip you off to the problem. In particular, experts say there’s one thing you may notice while talking that signals a dementia diagnosis. Read on to find out which symptom may crop up in conversation, and what to do if you notice this sign of cognitive decline. RELATED: Doing This During Mid-Life Makes Your Dementia Risk Soar, Experts Say. The NIA explains that many people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias experience changes in their ability to effectively communicate. This may include developing a hindered ability to speak, express thoughts, comprehend complex ideas, read, or write, says the organization, a branch of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Specifically, they say those with dementia are prone to “using unusual words to refer to familiar objects” as their cognitive impairment progresses. Another manifestation of this same symptom is to describe familiar objects broadly instead of calling them by their name. RELATED: If You’re Over 60, This Increases Your Dementia Risk by 55 Percent. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are several other ways that dementia may affect one’s ability to communicate clearly, especially as the disease advances. “Communication with a person with Alzheimer’s requires patience, understanding and good listening skills,” they write. The organization notes that someone with mid-stage to advanced dementia may struggle to find the right words in conversation, use familiar words often, speak less frequently, rely on gestures to communicate, or revert to their first language. They may tell the same stories repeatedly or lose their train of thought easily. Because communication can become increasingly difficult for those with dementia, it can sometimes lead to increased isolation from others. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that social isolation is linked with a 50 percent increase in risk of dementia, and that it can worsen symptoms in those who already suffer from the condition. For this reason, it’s important to maintain connections with individuals with dementia, even as conversation becomes a greater challenge. RELATED: For more health news sent directly to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter. The Alzheimer’s Association has several tips for how to engage more effectively with an individual who has Alzheimer’s or related dementias.ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb First, don’t make assumptions about a person’s ability to communicate based on their diagnosis—dementia is different for everyone. Be conscious of excluding, infantilizing, and interrupting the person as you notice changes in their communication style. Take time to listen, and give those with dementia adequate time to respond. In the early stages of cognitive impairment you may be able to ask whether they know what form of communication works best for them. As dementia progresses and communication becomes a greater challenge, focus on providing patience, directness, and a listening ear, says the organization. Minimize distractions, speak slowly and clearly, and ask closed-end questions when possible. RELATED: This Could Be Your First Sign of Dementia Years Before Diagnosis, Study Says.
