The Resonance of Dementia

There is a widespread misconception that dementia only affects one's memory, but this couldn't be further from the truth. Dementia can also impair mobility, eyesight, language skills, behavior, and sensitivity to sounds.

As you sit in a bustling restaurant, the sounds of silverware clinking against plates, conversations overlapping and blending into a chaotic symphony, and the constant hum of background noise fill your ears that we can normally block it out. But for someone with dementia, these seemingly mundane noises can become a cacophony, a jumbled mess that they cannot decipher or ignore. The once peaceful ambiance is now a battlefield, triggering confusion and agitation. As you try to communicate with your loved one, their attention is pulled in every direction, rendering your voice just another indistinguishable noise in the chaos around them. This overload of sound can lead to outbursts and aggression as they struggle to cope with the overwhelming environment.

I have a friend with dementia who compares going into a store to being in an amphitheater because of the loud music, voices, and noise from shopping carts. He also looks forward to the end of summer break because his house becomes quieter without his grandchildren around. Although he loves having them there, it can sometimes become too much for him.

The sound of a door closing may seem insignificant to most, but for someone with dementia, it can be jarring and cause disorientation. Even the normal volume of TVs and radios can feel too loud and overwhelming for them. As caregivers, it is important to be mindful of these triggers and always ask about their sensitivity to sound. The constant bombardment of noises in everyday environments can be difficult for them to process and can lead to further distress and agitation.

This highlights the importance of communicating with individuals with dementia on their level, eye-to-eye. We should assure them that they can come to us with any problems and that we will do our best to help reduce their anxiety levels. This may involve creating more quiet time for them at home, but it is necessary for their well-being.

It's important that we encourage these individuals to be social and spend time in public. However, when choosing a restaurant, it may be best to stick to one familiar café with staff that you know and trust. Try to find the quietest table available and avoid crowded areas like the hostess station or restrooms. You can still have a pleasant afternoon out together by sticking to this routine.

Gary Joseph LeBlanc. CDCS

Education Director

Dementia Spotlight Foundation