Many people with dementia find it harder to concentrate and stay focused, especially when there are distractions or competing demands. Even people without dementia can find it difficult to focus when tired, as it takes extra effort for the brain to block out unnecessary noise or interruptions.
Tips to support focus
- One thing at a time! Avoid multi-tasking and focus on a single step or activity.
- Take breaks: Short, regular pauses can help maintain attention and reduce frustration.
- Plan your day. Schedule tasks requiring concentration for when you feel most alert. Many people find mornings are best. Reserve routine or more physical jobs for later in the day and build in rest before afternoon or evening activities.
- Minimise distractions: Keep the environment calm, with limited background noise or interruptions.
- Check lighting: Good general and task lighting improves visibility and focus. For example, people with dementia may need brighter light to see clearly, especially in spaces like kitchens or work areas.
- Repeat instructions. Saying a task out loud or repeating a simple version in your mind can help memory and focus. For example, Val asked David to get some medication from the kitchen. By repeating to himself, “Get the medicine from the kitchen,” David was able to stay on task and avoid distractions.
- Use external prompts: Calendars, checklists, alarms, labelling cupboards or drawers or smartphone reminders can help you remember steps and stay on track.
Try strategies to help with life
Re-read this page and write down some strategies that you think might be helpful to you. Then try them out.
For more practical ideas from people with dementia and carers, the By Us For Us guides offer tips and strategies that can be downloaded for free online.
Photo: Marc Pell via Unsplash.
