As your senior loved one’s dementia-related condition advances, it may become increasingly difficult to talk with him or her. For this reason, understanding how to effectively communicate with your parent is important. In fact, employing effective communication techniques can allow you, other family members, and friends to enjoy precious time with your loved one in a way that’s productive and mutually beneficial. Here are some tips to keep in mind that can help you talk with a loved one with dementia.
Avoid Distractions
Older adults with dementia tend to become easily distracted by background noises. Even situations when multiple people are part of the conversation can be confusing at times. Make it easier for your loved one to remain mentally focused by minimizing distractions as much as possible and not carrying on multiple conversations in the same room when someone is trying to talk to him or her.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional senior care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Speak Clearly & Naturally
While it’s important to speak clearly when talking to a loved one with dementia, there’s no need to default to “baby talk” or other unintentional forms of condescension. Treat your loved one with respect as you have conversations together by:
- Using a warm, loving tone
- Talking normally and not in an overly simplistic way
- Refraining from shouting in an attempt to increase your loved one’s understanding if he or she appears to be confused, as this only creates more confusion and frustration
- Pausing long enough to give your loved one time to fully take in what you’re saying
Refer to People by Their Names
If your loved one is in an advanced stage of dementia, get into the habit of using names instead of pronouns when addressing or referring to other family members and friends. For example: “Good morning, Mom. It’s me, Julie. Did your friend Martha call you back yet?” is better than “Hi! It’s me. Did your friend call back yet?”
Stick to One Topic at a Time
It can be difficult for people with dementia to follow complex conversations during which people are discussing multiple topics. Avoid creating confusion by focusing on one topic at a time instead of sporadically jumping around.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of Home Care Milwaukee families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Look for & Use Nonverbal Cues
Get a better idea of how well your loved one comprehends what you’re saying by watching his or her eyes and facial expressions. This approach should make it easier for you to know when to slow down or say something a bit more clearly to increase comprehension. Also, when dementia gets more advanced, nonverbal communication involving visual cues may become your loved one’s main form of communication. Nonverbal cues that can be helpful include:
- Making direct eye contact
- Smiling to make it clear you’re trying to convey something positive
- Gently touching your loved one’s shoulder or face
Don’t Constantly Correct Your Loved One
You’ll be more likely to have pleasant conversations with your loved one if you avoid the temptation to correct inaccurate statements. However, it’s okay to politely let your loved one know if you’re having difficulty trying to figure out what he or she is trying to say. If you do figure it out, let your loved one know you understand so he or she can move on. If you don’t, reassure your parent that it’s all right and talk about something else.
Be Patient & Actively Listen
If you’re a natural multitasker, it can take some practice to actively listen to what your loved one is saying. But if you do, it’ll be easier to know how to engage with your loved one and express meaningful thoughts. Lastly, be patient when talking to your loved one, and realize people with dementia-related conditions tend to have their good days and bad days when it comes to being able to clearly communicate.
Even when families have the best intentions, caring for a senior loved one with dementia can be challenging. Fortunately, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help. We are a leading provider of Dementia Care. Milwaukee families can take advantage of our flexible and customizable care plans, and our caregivers always stay up to date on the latest developments in senior care. If you need compassionate professional care for your loved one, call one of our friendly Care Managers today.
