Almost everyone knows someone – a friend, grandmother or parent – who is affected by Alzheimer’s disease. In Illinois, more than 220,000 individuals are living with this devastating illness.

It is important to remember that people with Alzheimer’s need love and companionship just as much as we do. As the disease progresses, it becomes harder to talk with individuals who have Alzheimer’s. Because of this, many people simply avoid all contact with them.

The Illinois Council on Long Term Care, an association of nursing home professionals, offers several ideas on how to effectively communicate with loved ones who have Alzheimer’s and how to make your visit with them enjoyable and rewarding. These are all simple ways to brighten the lives of individuals living with Alzheimer’s.

Be patient and respectful.

Use short, simple sentences.

Avoid open-ended questions whenever possible.

Minimize distractions.

Use non-verbal communication.

Do not argue with or quiz someone who has Alzheimer’s.

Realize that a person living with Alzheimer’s "lives in the moment."

Follow old, established routines.

Plan activities that spark reminiscence.

The Council encourages everyone to remember grandmas, grandpas, moms, dads, aunts, uncles and friends living with Alzheimer’s throughout the year. All of us should take an active role in helping persons living with Alzheimer’s feel valued and appreciated.