Alzheimer's disease, as with any related disorder, can impair a person's ability to understand verbal communication; therefore, caregivers may have to find creative ways to foster communication. Non-verbal communication such as body language, voice tone and facial expressions play an important role in communication throughout the disease process.
The following tips help encourage memory-impaired individuals to communicate:
The following tips help encourage memory-impaired individuals to communicate:
- Always be patient and supportive letting the person know you are listening and trying to understand what is being said.
- Be attentive and demonstrate interest in what the person is saying. Remember to keep good eye contact while the person is speaking.
- Reassure and comfort the person if they are having trouble articulating their thoughts; let them know it is ok to fumble with words.
- Give the person ample time to complete their thoughts and describe whatever they want. Be mindful not to interrupt their thought process.
- Avoid criticizing or correcting the person no matter what they say. Instead, listen and try to find meaning in what is being said.
- Don't argue with the person even if you don't agree. Arguing will only make things worse.
- Offer a guess if the person uses the wrong word or is unable to find the correct word. Be mindful not to cause unnecessary frustration.
- Encourage non-verbal communication if you don't understand what is being said by asking the person to point or gesture (similar to playing charades.)
- Limit distractions by trying to find a quiet place without interruptions. The surroundings should reinforce the person's ability to focus on thoughts.
- Focus on their feelings, not necessarily the facts, because sometimes the emotions being expressed are what's most important.
Want to learn more about Alzheimer's or dementia? Visit us online at www.BRHope.com. Thanks for reading!
2 comments:
There is no way I can express how much Alzheimer's Services helped me during my mother's battle with Alzheimer's. The support groups were of particular assistance -- even tho my problems were the same when I left the meetings as when I arrived, my heart seemed lighter and I felt better. I believe this was because being in the group of people with similar problems and suggestions helped me to see I was not alone in my struggle. It is my hope that anyone seeing this blog would avail themselves of this wonderful service that is provided.
You are not alone. Somewhere there is someone who has been through the same trials and tribulations you are now going through. Keep in touch with us either through Alzeimer's Services or one of the support groups they sponsor. I can guarantee you will feel better knowing that you are not alone. Our hands and hearts are there to guide you.
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