Communication is essential in every caregiving situation. It’s a lot more difficult for families to communicate with seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease at times, though. Verbal and non-verbal communication can be very different than it used to be with the same aging adult. Alzheimer’s care providers can help families learn new ways to communicate effectively with their seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease.
Speak Slowly and Clearly
Simple, straightforward language is always best when communicating with Alzheimer’s patients. It also helps to be aware of small details like the pace of the conversation. Speaking at a slightly slower pace allows seniors to process what has been said and formulate a response. Just because they’re taking a little longer doesn’t mean they don’t understand.
Maintain Eye Contact
Eye contact helps to connect seniors with the conversation. It also lets them know that someone is talking directly to them. Facial expressions, gestures, and other types of non-verbal communication are also easier for seniors to notice when there’s eye contact.
Offer Choices
Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease have lost a lot of control and choice when it comes to their daily lives. One of the best things that family caregivers and Alzheimer’s care providers can do is to offer choices as much as possible. Even the smallest choices can be incredibly important.
Use Visual Aids, Prompts, and Positive Body Language
Pictures, drawings, written instructions, and other types of visual aids or prompts can all help communicate with someone who has Alzheimer’s disease. For instance, they might have more trouble with spoken communication but have no problem understanding written notes. Using the tools that work for them just makes sense.
Reduce Agitation and Anxiety
A calm environment with fewer distractions helps seniors with Alzheimer’s to feel less anxiety and agitation overall. Calm lighting, soothing music, and a familiar environment can all help immensely. Alzheimer’s care providers can help family caregivers spot techniques that help their seniors feel calmer.
Maintain Dignity and Respect
Above all, it’s important to remember that seniors with Alzheimer’s disease still have autonomy and deserve respect and dignity. Alzheimer’s care providers often ask seniors for permission when touching them to help them, for instance. They also avoid rushing seniors whenever possible.
Getting Help from Alzheimer’s Care Providers
Often family caregivers tend to wait to decide to get extra help from services like Alzheimer’s care providers. But waiting too long can lead to frustration for everyone involved. Getting help earlier in the diagnosis helps everyone involved to learn as much as they can about Alzheimer’s disease, communicate with seniors who have cognitive illnesses, and make life easier and better for those seniors.
Communicating with seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease is different in so many ways than it is to communicate with other seniors. But by using the right techniques and maintaining as much patience as possible, family caregivers can learn what helps their aging adults. Alzheimer’s care providers make it easier for seniors and family caregivers to foster understanding and empathy while living with a very difficult situation..
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Care Services in Walpole MA, please get in touch with the caring staff at Care Resolutions, Inc. today. (508) 906-5572
CARE Resolutions, Inc. provides quality 24-Hour Home Care for seniors and families in Walpole, Dover, Wellesley, Framingham, Norfolk, Quincy, Weston, Medfield, Boston, Sherborn MA, and surrounding areas.
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