When a loved one reverts to their first language

In an ‘Ask Us Anything’ episode of the Hold the Moment podcast, a National Dementia Helpline advisor answered the following question from Dementia Australia Dementia Advocate Daniela.

What can family carers do when their loved one reverts to their first language due to dementia and the family doesn’t understand it? Daniela 

“Remember that what will work is different for everyone. 

Learn some key phrases and create a cheat sheet. 

Maybe have some bilingual family or friends help with this and, to make communication easier, keep it simple.

Use brief and clear sentences, ask questions with yes or no answers, and narrow down the options for your person to choose from.

Try not to argue with the person or correct them when they speak in their first language.

Tips for clear and simple communication

Remember that communication doesn’t always rely on words. 

There are non-verbal cues, facial expressions, and hand and body gestures that can convey warmth and meaning. 

Eye contact, smiling or holding hands can be very reassuring.

Create a calm environment, minimise background noise from TVs or radios, and make sure you have the person’s attention before you start talking. 

Focus on one idea at a time and allow plenty of time for the person to process what you’ve said.

The use of pictures and symbols can also be effective. 

Be mindful not to overcomplicate things however, if appropriate and accessible, you could use a translation app on a smartphone or tablet. 

For more formal situations, you could also hire an interpreter. We engage interpreters at Dementia Australia when required.

Resources in other languages

Dementia Australia has translated resources available in more than 40 languages, including Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Arabic, Vietnamese and Filipino.

Visit our website to find out more. 

Looking for support?

This question and answer are a part of the Ask Us Anything series in Season 3 of Hold the Moment, Dementia Australia's podcast. 

You can listen wherever you get your podcasts or on the Dementia Australia website.

If you would like support, advice or information about anything dementia related, contact the National Dementia Helpline. 

It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year on 1800 100 500 or via live chat.