The Power of Listening
How to Support a Friend Caring for Someone with Dementia
Caring for someone with dementia is a tough job. It takes patience, energy, and love — every single day. If you know someone who is a caregiver, you might wonder what you can do to help. The truth is, you don’t need a fancy plan or special training. Most times, what they really need is someone who will just listen.
Why Listening Matters
When a friend is overwhelmed, offering a listening ear can mean the world. Sometimes caregivers don’t need answers — they just want to feel heard and understood.
They may be:
Tired from long nights
Stressed from making tough decisions
Wishing someone would say, “I’m here for you”
How to Be There for Them
You don’t have to “fix it.”
Say things like:
“I can’t imagine how hard this is, but I’m here.”
“Tell me more. I want to understand.”
Avoid saying:
“At least they’re still alive.”
“Everything happens for a reason.”
Those phrases can feel dismissive, even if you mean well.
Join a Circle of Support
If you want to do even more, invite them to:
Join an online or local caregiver support group
Connect with others at Livewithdementia.com
Talk with people who “get it”
Being a caregiver can feel very lonely — but it doesn’t have to be. We believe that with a little understanding, support, and listening, we can help care partners feel stronger and less alone.
