• if the person is hard of hearing or wears glasses, make sure their hearing aid is working and they’ve got their glasses on • introduce yourself to remind them who you are
When you speak • be close enough for the person to see your facial expressions and gestures • speak clearly and at a slower pace, use short and simple sentences • use questions that require a “yes” or “no” answer • avoid childish or “baby” talk – people with dementia are still people • never talk about a person with dementia as if they’re not there – involve them in the conversation
When you listen • pay close attention to what the person is saying as well as their facial expressions and body language • don’t interrupt, even if you think you know what someone is trying to say… offer help only if it feels natural to do so
• avoid making assumptions – if you’re unsure of what a person has said, repeat what you think you understood
Beyond words Words aren’t the only way to communicate. Use body movements – for example, gesture towards the door or bring the person’s coat to signal let’s take a walk. Do what the person enjoys doing. Plenty of evidence shows the benefits of using music and other arts to encourage communication and self-expression. These activities also foster a sense of well-being and self-confidence as well as make your relationship with the person you’re caring for stronger. Have a good laugh! Having a sense of humour about mistakes or misunderstandings is a great tension reliever and reassures the person with dementia that everything is okay. For more practical tips or to find other helpful resources to help you manage day-to-day care, visit www.alzheimer.ca LC
This article was submitted by the Alzheimer Society.
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2339 Dufferin Street Toronto, Ontario M6E 4Z5 October 2016 | Home & LongTerm CARE 15