Perhaps the following behavioural  strategies from the Mayo clinic for dealing with persons with dementia can be translated into political strategies/tactics:

Teach the sufferer coping behaviors - to prevent accidents
Reduce clutter and noise, hide objects that can threaten safety; monitoring systems to detect wandering
Break tasks into easy steps, focus on success, not failure; 
Provide structure and routine to reduce confusion
Various therapies: music, pets, aromatherapy, art

The site also lists the signs of Dementia: 

Cognitive changes

Memory loss, which is usually noticed by a spouse or someone else
Difficulty communicating or finding words
Difficulty reasoning or problem-solving
Difficulty handling complex tasks
Difficulty with planning and organizing
Difficulty with coordination and motor functions
Confusion and disorientation

Psychological changes

Personality changes
Depression
Anxiety
Inappropriate behavior
Paranoia
Agitation
Hallucinations