How to Talk to a Senior With Alzheimer’s?
When your mom or dad has Alzheimer’s, even during the early stages, it can be hard to communicate and talk to them. They may be forgetting basic things or refusing that there is a problem. You may think they need more help at home, like from home care assistance, or you may be trying to help more too. Spending tons of time with your parents can be overwhelming, and if they accept outside help, home care assistance can be a great tool for the entire family.
However, keep in mind that during the later stages of Alzheimer’s, a senior may need more help than that. You may need to consider them to a nursing home because eventually, during the final stages of this disease, they will need round-the-clock help. The mental changes accompanying Alzheimer’s and other kinds of dementia affect a person’s ability to remember previous events and may also significantly impair that person’s ability to communicate.
It can be hard to understand how to change your communication style to a way that makes sense for seniors struggling with this disease. You need to keep things positive and use light tones when communicating. It can be hard to do this, especially when they are not listening or refuse the things you say. So, here are some tips to help you communicate with your loved one better.
Look Them In The Eye
Making polite eye contact and utilizing a person’s name are essential guidelines to follow throughout any kind of
Home Care Northbrook, IL: Seniors and Alzheimer’s
conversation. Keep in mind that they may not like it when you call them mom or dad, so you should also use their name. If they are speaking to you, show them the same respect by looking them in the eye when they’re talking. This will help ensure you both understand each other and you both know who the other person is talking to.
Keep Talking To Them Even If They Don’t Remember
Don’t underestimate the importance of communication, even if you’re caring for a loved one who has limited speech or can’t communicate at all. Talking is an excellent approach to showing your loved ones that you are still there for them, not only as their caretaker but as a family member who cares about them. Whether they remember your last conversation or remember who you are, just talking can help them feel connected to you.
Try Different Styles of Communication
If words alone aren’t getting your idea through, don’t be hesitant to try out alternative modes of communication. Try pointing or using props to get your point across. This is also a good way to let them choose what they want to eat or do. Giving them options that you can hold will give them a sense of independence even when they can’t be fully independent.
Always Be Patient
Being patient is easier said than done, but it is crucial when dealing with a mom or dad who has Alzheimer’s. You may have to repeat things several times or say something every day; you must be patient. Every person will have their good and bad days, and you need to be understanding.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in Northbrook, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 943-3786. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette and the surrounding areas.
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