Posted on November 23rd, 2025

Stepping Into Their World

How to Connect When Memory Fades

As Alzheimer’s progresses, communication changes—but connection doesn’t have to fade. When words become difficult, our presence, tone, and actions speak louder than language. Learning how to engage in ways that bring comfort and reassurance makes a world of difference.

The Power of Presence Over Correction

One of the biggest challenges for non-caregivers is knowing how to respond when someone with Alzheimer’s is confused. Should you correct them? Remind them of reality? While this instinct comes from a good place, it can often lead to frustration and distress. Instead, shifting to an approach that prioritizes comfort over correction can help reduce anxiety and build trust.

✔ Instead of: “No, that’s not right.” → Try: “Tell me more about that.” 

✔ Instead of: “Remember, we already talked about this.” → Try: “That’s okay. Let’s talk about it again.” 

✔ Instead of: “Your mother passed away years ago.” → Try: “She loved you very much.”

These small shifts validate emotions rather than creating unnecessary distress. The goal is not to force them into our reality, but rather to meet them where they are.

How to Engage When Words Fail

When verbal communication becomes difficult, alternative forms of engagement help maintain connection:

🎵 Music Therapy – A familiar song can unlock memories and emotions, even in later stages. 

🖼 Visual Cues – Photos, artwork, and familiar objects can serve as conversation starters. 

👋 Non-Verbal Cues – A warm touch, a smile, or gentle eye contact reassures without words. 

🌱 Sensory Activities – Gardening, folding laundry, or feeling different textures can provide comfort.

Even when words fade, emotion remains. People with Alzheimer’s may not recall your name, but they will remember how you made them feel.

Finding Joy in Simple Moments

Not every interaction needs to be deep or profound—sometimes, just being present is enough.

💜 Sitting together in comfortable silence. 

💜 Watching birds outside the window. 

💜 Sharing a piece of music from their younger years. 

💜 Offering a gentle hand squeeze for reassurance.

These moments may seem small, but they create feelings of love, safety, and connection that last far beyond memory.

Join the Conversation

💬 What’s one way you’ve connected with someone when words were no longer enough? Let’s share ideas and support each other in this journey.

📖 Want to learn more? My book Step Into Their World: Making Sense of Alzheimer’s provides practical strategies and real-life examples to help non-caregivers make meaningful connections at every stage.

🔗 Get your copy today: Step Into Their World: Making Sense of Alzheimer’s

📢 Tagging incredible advocates and organizations making a difference: @AlzheimersAssociation @DementiaFriendlyAmerica @TeepaSnow @AlzAuthors @TheAlzheimersExperience

#AlzheimersAwareness #MemoryLoss #CompassionateCare #TheAlzheimersExperience #EndAlz