Tips on Communicating With Alzheimer's Patients

When an individual is hit with dementia, clear communication becomes more challenging. Sometimes, our attempts to make a conversation may even cause anger or frustration.

A little bit of understanding and compassion can make a huge positive difference in the quality of life of Alzheimer’s patient. The dementia problem is caused mainly when high levels of certain protein damages brain cells in the brain that affects learning. And, as this disease advances it leads to disorientation, mood and behavior changes and confusion.

In order to help minimize stress levels and improve relationships, we have a few tricks through which can help make it easier when communicating with an Alzheimer’s patient:

•    There is no doubt over the fact that communication can be non-verbal as much as it is verbal. Making good eye contact, punctuating your words with a gentle and loving touch and smiling often can help someone understand you in a better way.

•    Be an active and a patient listener. If you don’t get what your senior loved one is trying to convey then gently let them know that and ask them to explain it in another way.

•    It is important for you to understand that short-term memory loss is one of the major symptoms of Dementia and so it is natural that you will have to repeat your words quite often. So, work on staying calm so that you can avoid feeling angry, otherwise it will only make the situation worse.

•    When you have something to discuss with them, choose a familiar location or at a time when you’re loved one is doing very well. Try to minimize the distractions which can make it difficult for you to emphasize your words.

•    Everyone deserves to be heard and talked to even if the person is suffering from Dementia. Thus, speak in your natural tone and in a clear and warm voice so that communication remains clear.

•    While you are talking to the Dementia patient, make sure to move your head to be at their level. Do not hover over them as this could be a little scary for them. If they are centered on their fear, they won’t be able to hear what you are saying.

It is essential to mention that communication does not end when someone gets diagnosed with dementia. Dementia patients coping with chronic illnesses which affect their ability to communicate deserve to have a say in decisions which have a big role to play in their lives.

So, it’s imperative for you to remember that you can be an advocate as well as a supporter to those you really love while practicing excellent self care too. Treat the dementia patient right because it will make you feel better too.

Apply the above mentioned tips and it will work wonders. If you have some more tips to share, do let us know. After all, it is all about making a change in the lives of those who need little bit of medical care and love.