Caregiver in Loudonville OH
Communicating with seniors who have dementia can be extremely challenging for their caregivers. The more progressive the disease becomes, the more difficult it is for the elder to vocalize their thoughts, feelings, and wants. On top of their inability to communicate, older adults with dementia are also unable to care for themselves, requiring 24 hour supervision.
Learning to understand what your loved one wants to say without the use of words is not easy, but there are 7 ways to better connect and communicate with someone who has dementia.
- Set the tone. The elder may not be able to use their words, but they are able to pick up on nonverbal cues, such as body language and tone. When talking to your loved one, use a respectful, positive voice. Also, use positive facial expressions and touch to convey the message.
- Eliminate all distractions. When the TV or radio is turned on and the phone is ringing, the elder’s attention will probably go to wherever the noise is coming from. Remove all noisy distractions from the room in order to get their undivided attention. Another way to hold their attention is to make eye contact with them when speaking and addressing them by name.
- Make the message simple. In order to get your message across, it has to be communicated as simply as possible. For example, if you are asking them to do something, do so in steps as a way to let the directions be much clearer to the elder. Speak slowly, making sure to clearly annunciate each word. If they do not respond after a few minutes, repeat the exact same words in the same manner and wait. If that still does not work, rephrase the question.
- Ask yes or no questions. Open-ended questions can be too difficult for elders with dementia to answer. The best way to get a response from them is by asking simple yes or no questions. When giving her choices, it is better to show her what options are available. For example, if asking, “Would you like to wear the black shirt or red shirt,” hold up both choices.
- Be patient. People with this condition take more time to respond to questions than others. Give them a few minutes to answer you. If the elder is having a difficult time finding the right words, feel free to suggest words for them.
- Redirect their attention. If the elder becomes irritable or distressed, get their attention off of whatever caused them to become upset in the first place through distractions. Try taking them out of the environment or changing the topic to help improve their mood and forget about whatever triggered the negative behavior.
- Be understanding and supportive. Seniors with dementia may easily become confused, disoriented, and anxious, especially when in unfamiliar places. Reassure them by touching their arm or through body language. Even if you think it is ridiculous that they are upset, it is not ridiculous to them. Do not try to prove that the elder is wrong; just show them you love them and understand how they feel.
Caring for someone with dementia can be a demanding job. Yet, with these communication skills, you will be able to strengthen the bond between you and your elderly loved one.
If you are considering hiring caregiver services in Loudonville, Ohio, call the caring staff at Central Star Home Health at (419) 610-2161. Providing services for families in Mansfield, Lexington, Bellville, Mt. Gilead, Loudonville, Crestline, Galion, Shelby, Ashland, Wooster, and the surrounding areas.
Source:
https://www.caregiver.org/caregivers-guide-understanding-dementia-behaviors
With over 35 years of experience, Stephen Sternbach has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Star Multi Care Services since 1987. After the sale of the New York and New Jersey operations of Star Multi Care Services, Sternbach brought the company private where he remains President and CEO of this 40-million dollar company. With Sternbach at the helm, Star Multi Care Services employs more than 650 employees, in six offices throughout Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York.
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