The Dementia Care Foundation is offering free information that can help anyone to a better relationship and more communication with their loved one who has Alzheimer’s or Dementia.
The information may be downloaded in an Easy to save PDF file format, or save the link to their site and visit often.
Below is a sample of the available Hints and Tips from this informative site. For more visit their website here –>The Dementia Care Foundation
Communication Tips directly from Individuals with Early Memory Loss
Speak with a smile, so I know that you care
If you are tense, remember I feel your tension too
A smile takes away tension and helps put me at ease
Use language I understand – keep it simple, no jargon or slang
Slow down your speech
Keep it short and to the point, one idea at a time
Be clear and concise
Let me take the time to think through what you said to me.
***************** When a person with Alzheimer’s disease is having difficulty expressing themselves and understanding others they may:
Have difficulty finding the right words
Use familiar words repeatedly
Invent new words to describe familiar objects
Frequently lose their train of thought
Experience difficulty organizing words logically
Revert to speaking in a native language
Curse or use offensive words
Speak less often
Rely on nonverbal gestures
******************* When having a conversation…
Do not startle by approaching from behind. Begin conversations by identifying yourself, calling the person by name and orienting them to the situation. Stand in front or in the direct line of vision of the person Alzheimer’s. Touch an arm or shoulder gently to get or keep attention. Show your interest by sustaining eye contact throughout the conversation……….Read More
Show Compassion:
Be patient and supportive. Let the individual know that you’re listening and trying to understand what is being said.
Avoid criticizing, correcting, and arguing. Avoid using negative statements and quizzing (i.e., “You know who that is, don’t you?”)……………..Read More
Coping Strategies to Respond to Lost Abilities:
Use song lyrics or prayer verses to communicate since these are easier to remember and understand.
Reminiscence about the previous good times to give your loved one something to talk about that he/she will remember.
Use touch and music to substitute when conversation is too difficult to carry……Read More
The information may be downloaded in an Easy to save PDF file format, or save the link to their site and visit often .
Below is a sample of the available Hints and Tips from this informative site. For more visit their website here –>The Dementia Care Foundation
Communication Tips directly from Individuals with Early Memory Loss
*****************
When a person with Alzheimer’s disease is having difficulty expressing themselves and understanding others they may:
*******************
When having a conversation…
Do not startle by approaching from behind. Begin conversations by identifying yourself, calling the person by name and orienting them to the situation. Stand in front or in the direct line of vision of the person Alzheimer’s. Touch an arm or shoulder gently to get or keep attention. Show your interest by sustaining eye contact throughout the conversation……….Read More
Show Compassion:
Be patient and supportive. Let the individual know that you’re listening and trying to understand what is being said.
Avoid criticizing, correcting, and arguing. Avoid using negative statements and quizzing (i.e., “You know who that is, don’t you?”)……………..Read More
Coping Strategies to Respond to Lost Abilities:
Use song lyrics or prayer verses to communicate since these are easier to remember and understand.
Reminiscence about the previous good times to give your loved one something to talk about that he/she will remember.
Use touch and music to substitute when conversation is too difficult to carry……Read More
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