What is happening
A person with dementia may ask the same question many times. They may not remember asking. The question can also be a way of saying they feel worried, bored or unsure.
What to try
- Step 1. Stay calm and patient. Use a gentle voice and touch.
- Step 2. Answer the question, even if you have to answer it several times.
- Step 3. Respond to the feeling. For example, “It sounds like you are worried. I am here.”
- Step 4. If they can still read, write the answer down and put it where they can see it. Clocks, calendars and photos can help too.
- Step 5. Offer something to do. They may be bored.
What can help over time
- Look for a pattern: a time of day, a place, or certain people.
- Keep a regular routine with pleasant activities.
- If the repeating does no harm, it is okay to let it be.
Please avoid
- Arguing or trying to use logic.
- Saying “I already told you.” They cannot remember asking.