It can be frustrating when someone you care for has dementia. The usual back-and-forth interaction you may have had at one time with that person is no longer there, at least not consistently. However, there are some ways you can improve your communication with someone who has dementia. Follow the tips below to help.
- Speak naturally. Avoid baby talk, and try to keep your voice warm and calm.
- Stay focused in the conversation. Talk about one thing at a time to avoid confusion. Try to have a conversation in a place where there aren’t many distractions.
- Avoid arguments. An argument won’t go far with someone who has dementia, and you likely won’t come out the winner. Let disagreements go, and avoid the desire to correct everything that’s said, even if it’s inaccurate.
- Expect good and bad days. Some days, communication will be harder than others.
- Be realistic. Unfortunately, dementia gets worse over time. Know that ahead of time so you can keep your expectations in check and to help you maintain your patience.
- Speak directly with that person. If you are having a conversation with more than two people in the room, speak to that person directly when you have a question for them.
- Speak in short, positive phrases. If you’re giving instructions, give one instruction step at a time.
- Use nonverbal cues. Body language, eye contact, gentle touch, and your tone of voice can help convey your message to someone with dementia and show them that you care.
Call Secure Aging to Find Out How We Can Help Seniors With Financial Management
At Secure Aging in Bradenton, we transform the weight of the world into a sigh of relief for our senior clients and their concerned family members. The mission of Secure Aging is to protect and preserve our client’s independence and dignity through careful and thoughtful financial and care management. As our clients age, it is their desire to remain independent and age with dignity. Our services protect our clients from talented con artists looking to exploit and deplete the financial resources of our vulnerable seniors. Secure Aging helps families in Manatee County and Sarasota County and in and around the communities of Anna Maria, Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Ellenton, Holmes Beach, Lakewood Ranch, Longboat Key, Myakka City, Palmetto, Parrish, and Sarasota. Call us at 941-761-9338, or visit us online at www.secureaging.com.
