Video Tip: The Beauty of Silence

Sometimes the most compassionate response to someone with dementia isn’t a word at all. It’s silence.

People living with dementia often need more time to process language and form a response. Their brain might need 5, 10, or even 15 seconds to understand what you said and find the words to answer. But most of us rush to fill the silence or repeat the question, and that moment where they could have spoken is lost.

Try pausing with purpose. Ask your question, then wait. Hold eye contact. Let them know you believe they have something to say. That kind of silence communicates patience, respect, and connection without saying a word.