Simple Calming Practices for People with Dementia and Carers

Keep it concrete

Notice warm tea in the hands, listen to one piece of music, feel feet on the floor or look together at movement outside a window. Follow the person's comfort rather than insisting on a technique.

For a tense moment

First check for pain, hunger, thirst, the toilet, noise or fear. Then slow your own voice and breathing. Calm is often communicated through pace and posture before words.

• Use a familiar phrase
• Reduce the number of people speaking
• Move to a quieter space if safe
• Stop if the practice increases distress

Carers need care too

Brief practices cannot solve exhaustion or lack of support. Ask your local authority about a carer's assessment and tell your GP if stress, sleep or low mood is affecting you.