2026 GUIDE
Dementia Communication Boards: When and How to Use Them
Learn what a dementia communication board is, when to use one, how to make a simple paper version, and when digital tools may help caregivers and people with dementia communicate more easily.
Published · 2026
Memoryboard Editorial Team
Dementia Communication Boards: When and How to Use Them
Communication changes are one of the most difficult parts of dementia — both for the person living with it and for the people caring for them.
As memory loss progresses, it can become harder to find words, answer questions, follow conversations, or explain needs clearly. This often leads to frustration, anxiety, and emotional withdrawal.
A dementia communication board can help.
These simple visual tools reduce pressure during conversations and make it easier for someone with dementia to express needs, feelings, routines, and preferences — even when speaking becomes difficult.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
What a dementia communication board is
How it differs from a memory board
When low-tech communication tools work best
How to make a paper communication board
When digital solutions become useful
Why many caregivers use both paper and digital tools together
What Is a Dementia Communication Board?
A dementia communication board is a visual aid that helps a person communicate using:
Pictures
Words
Symbols
Simple phrases
Daily routine prompts
Instead of relying entirely on speech, the person can point to images or text to communicate basic needs and feelings.
Communication boards are often used for:
Hunger or thirst
Bathroom needs
Pain or discomfort
Emotions
Daily activities
Familiar people
Medication reminders
Choices (“yes/no,” “this/that”)
For example, a communication board might include pictures for:
Water
Food
Toilet
Bed
Family members
Television
Favorite activities
This reduces stress during conversations and gives the person more independence.
Why Communication Becomes Harder With Dementia
Dementia affects multiple areas of communication over time, including:
Word retrieval
Short-term memory
Attention
Processing speed
Visual recognition
Decision-making
Someone may know what they want to say but struggle to find the correct words. Others may become overwhelmed when asked open-ended questions.
Caregivers often notice situations like:
Repeating questions
Trouble following conversations
Increased agitation
Withdrawal from social interaction
Difficulty expressing discomfort or pain
Visual communication tools help because they reduce cognitive load. Instead of searching for words, the person can recognize familiar images or choices.
Dementia Communication Board vs. Memory Board
These tools are related, but they serve different purposes.
A Communication Board Helps Someone “Say”
Examples:
“I’m hungry”
“I need the bathroom”
“I feel anxious”
“I want to rest”
A Memory Board Helps Someone “Remember”
Examples:
Today’s date
Upcoming appointments
Names of caregivers
Daily routines
Medication schedules
Many families benefit from using both together.
When Low-Tech Communication Tools Are the Right Choice
Not every dementia aid needs to be digital.
In many cases, a simple paper communication board works better than an app or tablet.
Low-tech communication tools are especially helpful when:
1. Technology Causes Confusion
Some people with dementia become overwhelmed by:
Touchscreens
Notifications
Multiple menus
Passwords
Bright interfaces
2. Fine Motor Skills Are Limited
Tapping a picture on paper is often easier than navigating a device.
3. Communication Needs Are Simple
If the goal is basic daily communication, a laminated board may be all that’s needed.
4. Caregivers Need Fast Access
A paper board can stay:
Beside the bed
At the dining table
In a wheelchair pouch
Near the bathroom
No charging or setup required.
5. The Person Is in Mid-to-Late Stage Dementia
As dementia progresses, familiar and highly simplified tools often become more effective than complex technology.
Benefits of Dementia Communication Boards
Caregivers frequently report that communication boards help reduce frustration for everyone involved.
Benefits may include:
Reduced Anxiety
When someone cannot express a need, distress often increases. Visual choices create reassurance and predictability.
Better Daily Communication
Simple visual prompts support conversations that might otherwise stall.
Increased Independence
Being able to point to needs helps preserve dignity and autonomy.
Fewer Behavioral Escalations
Some agitation comes from unmet needs that cannot be communicated verbally.
Easier Caregiving
Communication boards can improve interactions for:
Family caregivers
Home aides
Nurses
Memory care staff
How to Make a Simple Paper Communication Board
You do not need special software or expensive equipment to create an effective communication board.
The best boards are:
Familiar
Clear
Personalized
Easy to read
Step 1: Focus on Essential Needs
Start with the most common daily situations.
Examples:
Food
Drink
Bathroom
Pain
Tired
Cold/hot
Help
Family members
Avoid overcrowding the board.
Step 2: Use Large Pictures and Text
Best practices:
Large fonts
High contrast
Simple wording
Real photos when possible
Minimal clutter
Many people respond better to familiar photographs than generic icons.
Step 3: Include Yes/No Options
This is one of the simplest and most effective additions.
A large:
YES
NO
section can dramatically improve communication.
Step 4: Organize by Category
You can divide sections into:
Needs
Feelings
Activities
People
Comfort items
Consistency helps recognition.
Step 5: Laminate the Board
Laminated boards:
Last longer
Resist spills
Clean easily
Feel more durable
Some caregivers keep multiple copies around the home.
Example Layout for a Dementia Communication Board
A basic board might include:
Needs
Water
Snack
Bathroom
Blanket
Medication
Feelings
Happy
Sad
Worried
Tired
Pain
Activities
Watch TV
Listen to music
Go outside
Rest
People
Daughter
Son
Nurse
Spouse
Quick Responses
YES
NO
HELP
Simple is usually better.
When to Upgrade to a Digital Communication Tool
Digital tools become useful when caregivers need:
Remote updates
Dynamic schedules
Audio reminders
Multiple caregivers syncing information
Visual routine automation
A digital setup may help if the person:
Is comfortable with screens
Still uses tablets or smart displays
Responds well to visual reminders
Benefits from scheduled prompts
Digital communication systems can combine:
Photos
Reminders
Calendars
Medication prompts
Video calls
Daily schedules
However, technology should reduce stress — not add to it.
If a digital tool becomes confusing or frustrating, simpler options may work better.
Tips for Caregivers Using Communication Boards
Keep Language Simple
Use short phrases and concrete words.
Instead of:
“Would you like assistance ambulating?”
Try:
“Want to walk?”
Allow Extra Time
Do not rush responses.
People with dementia may need additional processing time before answering.
Point While Speaking
Combining visual and verbal communication improves understanding.
Watch for Overload
Too many images or choices can become overwhelming.
Start small and expand only if helpful.
Update the Board Over Time
Communication needs change as dementia progresses.
What works today may need simplification later.
Tips for Caregivers Using Communication Boards
Are dementia communication boards only for late-stage dementia?
No. They can help during early, middle, or late stages depending on communication difficulties.
Can I make one at home?
Yes. Many caregivers create highly effective communication boards using:
Printed photos
Cardstock
Laminating sheets
Dry erase markers
Are digital communication apps better?
Not always. Some people respond better to paper because it feels familiar and less overwhelming.
Should I use both a memory board and communication board?
In many cases, yes. They support different needs and work well together.
Start Supporting Your Loved One Today
MemoryBoard is designed to help seniors living with dementia and memory loss stay oriented, calm, and connected to their routines.
Explore memory support tools at MemoryBoard.com
Choose the Right Size for Your Space
Pick the 10.1″ for nightstands and kitchen counters.
Pick the 15.6″ for living rooms and reading across the room.
Shop Memoryboard
Final Thoughts
A dementia communication board is not about replacing conversation.
It’s about reducing frustration, preserving dignity, and helping someone stay connected when words become harder to access.
For many families, the simplest tools are often the most effective.
A paper communication board can create calmer interactions, clearer caregiving, and more meaningful daily connection — especially when combined with thoughtful routines and memory support systems.
If you’re exploring additional memory support tools, you may also want to read our guide to choosing the right memory board for dementia care.
