What type of communication strategies should be used with dementia patients?
The damage in their brain has changed the way your older adult hears, processes, and responds to conversation.
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That’s why it’s necessary to adapt the way we communicate to match their abilities. Often, the nonverbal messages we send with our body language and facial expressions come through more clearly than the words we speak. And sometimes, the nonverbal messages don’t match the words we use, which causes confusion. But when we use body language and facial expressions that help seniors clearly and easily understand our meaning, it reduces confusion, agitation, and anger and also increases cooperation. Using these nonverbal communication techniques to talk to someone with dementia makes caregiving easier and improves quality of life for both of you. We explain what nonverbal communication is and share 6 helpful tips that you can use right away.
Advertisement What are nonverbal dementia communication techniques?There are many different types of nonverbal communication, including: 1. Facial expressions 2. Body movements and posture 3. Gestures 4. Eye contact The way you look at someone can say a lot. Plus, eye contact helps you see the other person’s engagement level and reactions. 5. Touch For example, these mean very different things: a limp handshake, a gentle shoulder tap, a warm hug, a reassuring pat on the back, a patronizing pat on the head, or a controlling grip on the arm. 6. Space For example, standing too close can make someone uncomfortable. But staying at too far a distance could seem uncaring or uninterested. 7. Voice For example, imagine saying “fine” during a heated argument compared to saying it when you’re happy and content. The same word sounds completely different.
6 nonverbal dementia communication techniques1. Be patient and calm
When a situation is very frustrating, staying calm can be tough. In those cases, it’s worthwhile to step away for a minute to do some deep breathing or calming exercises so you can come back with a calm attitude. That helps you avoid a situation where your tension or frustration could subconsciously influence your older adult’s responses or behavior.
Advertisement 2. Keep voice, face, and body relaxed and positive
3. Be consistent 4. Make eye contact and respect personal space
5. Use gentle touch to reassure This could include:
6. Observe their nonverbal reactions Watch for signs of frustration, anger, or fear and adjust your responses and actions to calm or soothe as needed. Which communication strategies are appropriate for a patient with dementia?Tips for successful communication:. Engage the person in one-on-one conversation in a quiet space that has minimal distractions.. Speak slowly and clearly.. Maintain eye contact. ... . Give the person plenty of time to respond so he or she can think about what to say.. Be patient and offer reassurance. ... . Ask one question at a time.. What are some strategies for communicating with Alzheimer's patients?To speak effectively with a person who has Alzheimer's:. Offer simple, step-by-step instructions.. Repeat instructions and allow more time for a response. Try not to interrupt.. Don't talk about the person as if he or she isn't there.. Don't talk to the person using “baby talk” or a “baby voice.”. What communication strategies could a personal care assistant use to remind people with dementia of occasions?Get to know a person's life story so you can individualise the way you communicate with them. Always use their preferred name and avoid pet names like 'Darling' and 'Dear'. Use meaningful photos on memory charts and signs. Acknowledge their feelings and behaviours and allow them to express them.
What support strategies would you use to help the person with dementia feel better?Tips for carers on maintaining independence. Do things together – try to do things with the person, rather than for them.. Focus on the things the person can do, rather than those they can't.. Allow plenty of time for tasks and offer reassurance and encouragement if needed.. Break down tasks into smaller steps.. |