My experience with the older people in our CCRC.
A very personal, patient approach. Low keyed all the way through. Absolutely no fast talking or louder voice.
I use simple interaction... few words, and eye contact. A warm approach, if that makes any sense to you. Never, ever show your own frustration. In the conversation, be aware of the other person's response. A nod, a shake of the head, or obvious facial expressions.
Lead ins.....:
How are you....
Is there something I can do?
Can you point to it?
So you want to talk about....
I'll mention a few words or things, and you nod yes or no.
Did something happen?
Should we discuss... the kids, money, food or meals, or treatment?
Do you want to see.... "Sally"? ... Go out for a ride? A pencil...pad...
Need to see a doctor?
You get the idea... learn to judge the person's style of reacting.
When you are not clicking with your own questions, take it even slower, and allow the person to come out with words or gestures, without quickening the "conversation".
My experience with this has been very rewarding, as the person I'm dealing with feels friendship and not stress. If frustration starts to show, give it a break, with some excuse to lower the anxiety level.
Just my take... It seems to work for me, as I can often break through the frustration, even when the nurses have given up.
I haven't heard of any machine or electronic device being used, and we live in a state of the art CCRC, with advanced nursing and memory care.