Optimising communication for people with dementia

Approximately 55 million people are living with dementia worldwide (World Health Organization, 2021). However, incidence is likely underreported due to diagnostic delays (Bradford et al, 2009). Many people with dementia experience dysphasia or aphasia, leading to lost or inhibited expression and comprehension. This significantly limits communication, which is comprised of transmission, perception and reception of information (Bach and Grant, 2014).

Ineffective communication leads to poor patient outcomes and experiences (Fong et al, 2010; Lang, 2012). Communication difficulties make gaining informed consent more challenging, delaying initiation of assessment and treatment (Care Quality Commission, 2011). These difficulties can also lead to incomplete patient history and subsequent inaccurate diagnoses, as well as inappropriate patient management (Institute for Healthcare Communication, 2011; Woodward, 2013). This may compromise patients' physical outcomes. Furthermore, clinicians may communicate less with patients who are cognitively impaired because it is more challenging (Miller, 2002; Jootun and McGhee, 2011), leading to social isolation in clinical settings. Social isolation affects mental and physical health and is associated with an increased incidence of depression, as well as higher mortality rates (Holt-Lunstad et al, 2010).