02/09/2026
Did you know a person living with Dementia may have a Super Power?
That’s right… a Super Power!
And once you understand what it is, you may find yourself looking at your interactions with the person you love in a completely different way.
So… what is this Super Power? I’m glad you asked! Emotional sensitivity.
Many people living with Dementia can become highly sensitive to the emotional atmosphere around them. They pick up on what is unspoken, unexpressed or communicated through tone, facial expressions and body language — sometimes even when the words being spoken sound perfectly fine they become upset or unsettled.
So, before we blame the music, the environment, the food, the time of day or the person with Dementia for becoming unsettled, it can be helpful to pause and ask ourselves:
“What am I bringing into this interaction?”
Because our emotional state can influence theirs.
Now, an important thing to remember is that no two people experience Dementia in exactly the same way.
Their experience can be influenced by the stage of Dementia, their health, personality, life history, likes and dislikes — and, of course, the kind of day they are having.
But there are also some beautiful things that many people continue to respond to, particularly when we find the right timing and the right approach.
One very useful strategy is redirecting attention towards something relaxing, interesting, purposeful or engaging.
And the trick is? Knowing your person.
What do they love?
What makes them smile?
What music do they enjoy?
What gives them a sense of purpose?
And remember — their preferences can change too due to the disease. So rather than assuming you know what they like, watch their response. Their response will tell you a lot.
Perhaps the loved one is sitting quietly, staring into space and seem disconnected from what is happening around them. This behaviour is very common with Dementia.
You could try playing some of their favourite music — perhaps songs from their teens, twenties or thirties. You might pull up the lyrics and sing along. Or simply hum.
You don't need to ask: “Do you remember this song?” Because that question can sometimes create pressure. Instead, just enjoy the moment together.
You might say: “I love this song. It reminds me of…” And then share something about yourself. You may be surprised at what happens next.
Perhaps they start singing. Or they smile, tap their fingers, or look towards you.
Perhaps a memory emerges, or nothing happens at all and that’s okay too.
There is no test to pass here. This is about connection — not perfection.
And there really is an art to communicating with someone living with Dementia.
Sometimes the questions we ask can unintentionally create frustration, confusion, isolation or withdrawal.
Sometimes saying less… doing less… and simply being alongside someone can create more connection than a dozen questions.
And if the person is non-verbal, the responsibility for carrying the interaction may fall more heavily on you. You can share your thoughts. Talk about the music. Share how it makes you feel, and what else you notice.
And most importantly, be observant and watch their facial expression, their eyes, and body language. Also their breathing, movements, and the little changes in their mood will tell you enough.
These signs can become a language of their own — telling you things that words may no longer be able to express. And here’s something I really want you to remember:
Even though Dementia changes the relationship — but it doesn't necessarily take away the possibility of connection.
This is a new learning curve for you both. You may find yourselves adapting to new routines, discovering what works — until one day it doesn't work anymore!
You may experience frustration, Grief, Loss, Confusion and sometimes even laughter in the middle of the difficult moments. Be gentle, go easy with yourself.
You are learning too. There is no perfect way to navigate Dementia. There is only learning, noticing, adapting, and trying again.
And if you are caring for or supporting someone living with Dementia and you're finding the changes difficult to navigate, you don't have to figure it all out alone.
I have more than 20 years' experience supporting people through life's transitions, including extensive experience in aged care, and I provide personalised Dementia and Grief & Loss Coaching.
Sometimes having someone help you understand what is happening, what you can change, and what you can let go of can make an enormous difference.
If you'd like some support, I'd love to have a conversation with you about how Coaching might help you feel more confident, compassionate and connected in your relationship.
I'm Elaine. Dementia Life Coach. 📞 0414 32 12 12 & visit my Facebook Omg Elaine
And remember… Small changes can change everything.
