Learn To Communicate With a Memory Care Resident

If you think that it is quite challenging to communicate with a memory care resident, then you have come to the right place. This is because memory assisted living is not only a place where you put your elderly loved ones, but also a place where communication is one of the priorities.

 

When it comes to caring for your loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, communication is key to make your caregiving journey less stressful. Thus, you must take a few notes on how to communicate effectively without getting frustrated or upset.

 

Establish a Positive Mood

 

Be aware that even your non-verbal communication can be used to express your thoughts and feelings. Sometimes this is even more expressive than words. So it is best to set up a comfortable atmosphere when making conversation by speaking to your loved one respectfully and nicely. Not only will you be able to show that you care, but you can also reinforce and convey your message by using a positive mood, proper tone of voice, and physical touch.

 

Ensure To Get Your Loved One’s Attention

 

Upon having a conversation, try to avoid noise and distractions. If possible, address them by their name and try to use your name to identify yourself. Moreover, you can use nonverbal cues or physical touch so that you can help them stay involved and focused on the conversation. Remember that memory assisted living also requires interesting conversations to get the attention of your loved one.

 

State Your Message Clearly

 

Try to speak slowly when talking to your loved one via a reassuring tone. Make use of simple sentences and words that everyone can understand. Do not raise your voice, even when frustration occurs during conversation.

 

If your loved one didn’t understand the first time you said something, try to repeat your message with the same wording. You also have to use specific names of places or people when conversing instead of using pronouns or abbreviations. This will all help promote memories and make the communication flow more easily.

 

Go For Simple or Answerable Questions

 

Instead of asking too many questions in a row, ensure that you only ask one question at a time and give them time to think and answer. For people with memory issues, it is best to establish questions that would require yes or no answers only. It would also help if you use specific words, making things clearer, easier, and simpler to understand.

 

Provide Direct and Simplistic Instructions

 

Try to break down tasks into single steps so that you can make things simple. You may use visual clues and instructions to ensure that he or she understands it.

 

Make Realistic Expectations

 

Try to answer with affection and reassurance, but avoid using the word “remember”. At the same time, try not to test their memory too hard at a memory assisted living facility. This could possibly upset them, especially if they are in denial about their condition. You may touch or hold their hands to help them respond if they may not be able to do so.

 

Use Humor to Neutralize Tension

 

It has been proven many times that laughter can defuse tense conditions almost instantaneously. Take note that people suffering from dementia tend to retain their social skills even if their memory has been diminished. They may even enjoy laughing along with you when you crack a joke or two.

 

 

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Fallbrook Assisted Living is proud to offer its services to Fremont, NE and surrounding areas and cities: Arlington, Cedar Bluffs, Ames Nickerson, Fontanelle, Arlington, Leshara, Colon, and Hooper