Dementia Care: The Impact of Terms of Endearment Like 'Sweetheart' on Communication

In the nuanced realm of dementia care, communication extends beyond words to include tone, phrasing, and relational cues. Commonly, healthcare staff use terms of endearment such as "darling," "sweetheart," or "love" with the intent to foster warmth and connection. However, the appropriateness of such language is subject to debate, with some viewing it as caring while others perceive it as patronizing.

Research indicates that these terms are often employed responsively during interactions, reflecting an mirroring effect between caregivers and patients. For instance, a patient might call a caregiver "duck," to which the caregiver responds with "all right, mate," helping build rapport and trust.

Terms of endearment are also strategically used at the start and end of conversations. For example, a nurse might say, "Alright, sweetheart, it's lovely to speak with you," signaling conversation boundaries, or to convey familiarity and reassurance. Similarly, opening remarks like "Hello, my dear" may indicate previous familiarity, although they can sometimes lead to misunderstandings if the professional is unfamiliar with the patient.

Another key function of these terms is mitigating or softening medical or diagnostic procedures. When asking a patient to repeat a statement or perform a task, health professionals might say, "What, my love? Repeat that," or "Just bend your knee, darling," which can reduce perceived imposition or discomfort. In stressful or painful situations, such language can acknowledge the patient's feelings and help minimize embarrassment.

Despite their widespread use, the effectiveness and appropriateness of terms of endearment depend heavily on context and individual preferences. Some patients, especially when distressed, may reject such language, emphasizing the importance of sensitivity and tailoring communication strategies to each person.

Recent studies, including real-life hospital observations and video analysis, have shown that these terms serve important social functions—mirroring, signaling conversation boundaries, and mitigating discomfort—rather than simply being patronizing language. Professionals' use of familiar or friendly terms can foster trust and emotional comfort if used appropriately.

In conclusion, while terms of endearment like "sweetheart" can enhance rapport, their use must be carefully calibrated. Recognizing individual responses and circumstances is crucial to ensure respectful and effective communication in dementia care.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-dementia-terms-endearment-sweetheart-comforting.html