Communication Tips for Caregivers
by Jeff Beher
Trying to communicate with a person who has Alzheimer's disease can be a challenge.
Both understanding and being understood may be difficult. There
are, however several strategies you can use to improve
communication with your loved one with Alzheimer's disease and
thereby reduce conflict, agitation and stress.
1. Try to reduce background noise, such as from the TV or radio,
when speaking. In addition to making it harder to hear, the TV or
radio can compete with you for the listener's attention.
2. Gain the listener's attention before you begin talking.
Approach the person from the front, identify yourself, and call him or her
by name, making sure you have his or her attention before speaking.
Identify people and things by name, avoiding pronouns.
3. Choose simple words and short sentences and use a gentle, calm
tone of voice when communicating with a person with Alzheimer's
disease.
4. Avoid talking to the person with Alzheimer's disease like a
baby or talking about the person as if he or she weren't there.
Speak naturally. Speak at a normal rate, not too fast or too
slow. Speak distinctly, but don't shout.
5. Use pauses to give the person time to process what you're
saying. Use short, simple, and familiar words.
6. Minimize distractions and noise-such as the television or
radio-to help the person focus on what you are saying.
7. Use a gentle and relaxed tone of voice, as well as friendly
facial expressions.
8. Frame questions and instructions in a positive way, and give
simple, brief one-step directions. Also, ask only one question at
a time.
9. Allow enough time for a response. Be careful not to interrupt.
10. Be attentive when they are communicating to you. Show that you
are listening and trying to understand what is being said.
11. Maintain eye contact with the person. Remember that visual
communication is very important. Facial expressions and body
language add vital information to the communication. You are also
able to provide as well as gain more insight as to their
understanding of what you are saying. For example, you are able to
"see" a person's anger, frustration, excitement or lack of
comprehension by watching the expression on his or her face.
12. Encourage the person to continue to express his or her
thoughts, even if he or she is having difficulty. Be careful not to
interrupt. Avoid criticizing, correcting and arguing.
Lastly, if the person with Alzheimer's disease is struggling to
find a word or communicate a thought to you, gently try to provide
the word he or she is looking for.
If the person with Alzheimer's disease continues to repeat
themselves, do not remind them that they asked you the same
question several times. This is part of the disease. Reminding them
only will make things worse.
These tips can help you and your loved one with Alzheimer's better
communciate and better communication ultimately means less
conflict, agitation and stress - for the both of you!
Jeff Behar, MS, MBA regularly writes about hot topics in the area
of health.
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