What to Do When a Person with Dementia Says No

Why no is often not about refusal - and how to respond without conflict

Few things are more difficult in dementia care than hearing: No. No to showering. No to getting dressed. No to eating. No to help. It can feel like resistance. Rejection. Or even opposition. Especially when the situation is important.

But in dementia care, no often means something very different.

What Is Happening in the Person

When dementia affects the br…