Understanding Behavior as Communication: A Community Conversation with Laura Wayman
At HOPE Dementia Support, we often talk about the importance of connection—meeting people where they are, and finding ways to truly understand one another, even when words become harder to find.
We are honored to welcome Laura Wayman, widely known as The Dementia Whisperer, for an upcoming community education event focused on a powerful and meaningful topic: Behavior as Communication in Dementia.
When someone we love is living with dementia, we may begin to notice changes that feel confusing, unexpected, or even overwhelming—repetition, agitation, withdrawal, or emotional shifts that seem to come out of nowhere. It’s natural to wonder what’s happening and how best to respond.
But what if we looked at these moments a little differently?
What if behavior isn’t something to manage or fix—but something to understand?
Because truly… don’t we all communicate in some way through our behavior?
A sigh, a change in tone, restlessness, silence—these are all ways we express how we’re feeling, even when we don’t say it out loud. For someone living with dementia, as language becomes more difficult, these forms of communication become even more important. Behavior becomes their voice.
During this presentation, Laura will help us slow down and listen more closely. She will share:
- Insight into what may be behind common dementia-related behaviors
- Ways to recognize unmet needs such as discomfort, fear, or confusion
- Practical, compassionate strategies for responding in the moment
- Tools to help caregivers feel more confident and less overwhelmed
Laura brings a unique blend of expertise, warmth, and real-life understanding to her work. Her approach helps shift the experience from frustration to curiosity—and from disconnection to meaningful connection.
She is also the author of A Loving Approach to Dementia Care, a valuable resource for caregivers and families. Her book is available through multiple retailers as well as directly through her store for those who would like to continue learning beyond this event. https://laurawayman.com/store
This conversation is for anyone walking alongside someone with dementia—family members, friends, professionals, and community members who want to better understand and support.
Because when we begin to see behavior as communication, everything changes.
We move from reacting… to responding.
From confusion… to understanding.
From distance… to connection.
And that is where HOPE lives.
We would love to have you join us.
March 31, 2026 – 6:30pm – 8:00pm To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Rw70wcCgRY6sY20wCVwSWQ
For other upcoming events, check out our event calender: https://hopedementiasupport.org/events/