Non-verbal communication and dementia

What is non-verbal communication?

Non-verbal communication is communicating without the use of spoken words. Most communication between people – with and without dementia – is non-verbal. It includes gestures, facial expressions and body language.

Simple words or phrases using British Sign Language or other forms of sign language such as Makaton can be helpful for non-verbal communication. This will depend on how much the person is able to learn or remember. For more information, visit british-sign.co.uk.

Why would a person with dementia use non-verbal communication?

Non-verbal communication may become the main way a person communicates as their dementia progresses. It may be especially important if they start communicating in the first language they learned, and you do not understand or speak this language.

The person’s body language can show a lot about their emotions. The expression on their face and the way they hold themselves can give you clear signals about how they are feeling.

If they are finding any kind of conversation too difficult, there may be other ways that they can communicate their emotions. Art therapies and activities such as drawing, painting, music, poetry and drama can help a person with dementia to express themselves. You can get activity ideas by ordering our activities handbook.

During the later stages of dementia, the person may not be able to communicate much at all. It can still help to talk to them and communicate by touch if it feels appropriate. For example, this could be by holding their hand. Even if they don’t respond, they may feel a connection with you and a sense of comfort. Sometimes just being with a person with dementia can be a reassurance. 

Tips for non-verbal communication with a person with dementia

• Use physical contact to show you’re there for the person. Don’t underestimate the reassurance you can give by holding their hand or putting your arm around them, if it feels appropriate.
• Respect their personal space and try to be at eye level. Being too close or standing over them can feel intimidating.
• A person with dementia will read and interpret your body language. Sudden movements, the tone of your voice or a tense facial expression could upset or distress them, even if the words you say are not upsetting.
• Make sure that your body language and facial expression match what you are saying, even if this might feel a bit forced at times. For example, it can be useful to smile when talking about pleasant memories.
• Try to learn to recognise what they are trying to tell you through their body language. For example, if they appear distracted or bored, you could try to change the subject to keep them engaged.
• Visual prompts can be very helpful. They could point to cue cards, language mats, or pictures in magazines or catalogues to express what they want to say. There are also communication apps and websites that show pictures or videos of different objects. Learn more about using technology to help with everyday life.
• The person may enjoy drawing or singing to express themselves. You can find local activity groups in your area by searching our directory