Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Implications for physician communication.

This article addresses the importance of language, speech, and communication accommodations between the physician and the patient with dementia. Following a brief summary of common profiles of speech, language, and communication in several different types of dementia, the authors discuss key elements based on a comprehensive model of communication enhancement for individuals with dementia. The primary emphasis of this article is that physicians must select individually tailored communication strategies drawn from a sound knowledge of patients' skills. More importantly, the article stresses that communication is not just the exchange of information, but communication includes components that help establish mutual respect and maintain patients' self-identity and autonomy.