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8 Tips for Sending Reminders and Messages for People with Dementia
When caring for someone with dementia, clear communication can make everyday life feel calmer and less confusing.
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Written by
Tyler Zanini, Founder at Memoryboard
One simple but powerful way to support your loved one is to use signs and written messages that are easy to read and understand. Whether it’s a note on the fridge or a sign on a door, here are some practical tips to make your messages more helpful for someone living with memory loss.
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1. Use a Large Font
Vision changes are common as we age, and dementia can make it harder for someone to process visual information. Always choose a large font size that’s easy to see from a reasonable distance. A good rule of thumb is to test it yourself: stand a few feet away and see if you can read it clearly.
2. Choose Sans Serif Fonts
Sans serif fonts (like Arial, Verdana, or Helvetica) are often easier to read than decorative or serif fonts. They have clean, simple lines that help letters stand out clearly, reducing visual clutter and confusion.
3. Keep It Short and Simple
Avoid packing too many words or lines onto your sign. A sign with just one clear idea, like “Bathroom” or “Please Close the Door”, is much easier to process than one with multiple instructions. Short, familiar words work best.
4. Use Visual Cues
Pair words with clear, simple images or symbols whenever possible. A picture of a toilet on a bathroom door or a cup next to a note that says “Drink Water” can help reinforce the message. Visual cues are powerful for people whose reading comprehension may fluctuate.
5. High Contrast Is Your Friend
Make sure there’s good contrast between the text and the background. For example, use black letters on a white background or white letters on a dark background. This makes the sign easier to read and reduces eye strain.
6. Place Signs at Eye Level
Think about where your loved one’s eyes naturally go. Signs should be positioned at eye level and in well-lit areas. For messages like reminders, place them where they’ll be noticed—like on a bathroom mirror, fridge, or front door.
7. Tailor It to Their Needs
Everyone’s abilities and comprehension levels are different. Some people may do well with just words, while others benefit from pictures. Use language and visuals that feel familiar and comforting to your loved one. If you notice they’re not responding to a sign, try adjusting it to see what works better.
8. Be Consistent
Consistency can help people with dementia feel more secure. Use the same wording and style for repeated messages so they become familiar over time. For example, always labeling the bathroom “Bathroom” rather than switching between “Toilet,” “WC,” or “Restroom.”
Supporting Communication with Care
Signs and written messages won’t solve every challenge, but they’re a gentle, practical way to help your loved one navigate their daily routine with more confidence. A few thoughtful design choices can reduce confusion and create a calmer, safer environment—one sign at a time.
Need help sending reminders? Tools like Memoryboard can help your loved one stay on track and feel more connected — every day.
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