Communication and Alzheimer's
Posted by Donna Mae Scheib on October 07, 2016
Communication and Alzheimer’s
"It is not the voice that commands the story... it is the ear." - Italo Calvino, Italian journalist and writer of short stories and novels
Whether someone is officially diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or the person displays some problems with memory, judgment, and thinking, communication undoubtedly becomes harder. There is struggle with language. The meanings of words don’t come that easy. Words are substituted that might not make sense. Gestures become more and more commonplace. Tracking conversations becomes difficult.
What can you do as a family member, a friend, or as a caregiver to keep the communication process going? Hopefully some of these suggestions will make the communication process easier.
Getting Attention
Sit or stand at eye level. Look at the person. Explain who you are and give them a connection to yourself. For example, Mom, it’s me, Susie. I’m your daughter who lives nearby. I visit you here.
Showing Attentiveness
Keep steady eye contact as you talk back and forth. When possible, use friendly facial expressions. Smile.
Speaking Clearly
Try to enunciate your words so they can be heard. Don’t cover your mouth with hand gestures when you speak so they can watch your lips. This is not the time to mumble or be chewing gum and eating food. Try not to talk too slow or too fast. Pause, when speaking, to help the listener catch up to what you are saying. Use a gentle, relaxed tone of voice.
Choosing Words Carefully
Remember to use simple words and short sentences. If you are giving directions, give limited steps. Tell one direction at a time. When asking questions, ask only one question at a time and wait for a response. If you don’t get a response, try giving an example or a prompt to elicit an answer. Use names of people and places (but not too many) instead of pronouns that can be confusing. Don’t tell complex stories or discuss complex topics.
Remaining Positive
Rephrase your language so it sounds positive. For example, “Let’s get ready for bed now” instead of “Why do you stay up so late?”
Being Respectful
Don’t sigh or show your frustration when communication breaks down. Include them in conversation instead of pretending they aren’t there. Don’t belittle or talk down to the person. Be genuinely engaged.
Rephrasing
If receptive language is difficult, try rephrasing what you have just said or you can give an example. Try using a prop or a photo (if available) that you think might help. Speak about things that surround them or things they enjoy (i.e., the birds outside the window, the snowy weather, a picture of family members, etc.).
Reducing Background Noise
Many people struggling with Alzheimer’s may also have difficulty with hearing. Turning off the radio and television will help with distractions. If more than one person is visiting, take turns talking. Don’t interrupt each other or move from one topic to another too quickly. This will cause confusion.
Adapting to Their Needs
Try to understand their communication. What are they trying to say to you through their limited words and gestures? Listen to them.
Being Patient
When they struggle or want to give up expressing themselves or appear distraught, encourage them to keep trying. Don’t interrupt them. Try not to argue or criticize them. Put your hand on their shoulder, caress their cheek, or hold their hand. Give them time.
Using Non-Verbal Communication
Gestures and facial expressions can convey a lot of meaning. Encourage them and use them yourself.
Some people may question the need to communicate with people who have Alzheimer’s. They may say that the person won’t really remember anyway, so why bother. Well, there are many reasons “to bother”...
Communication is vital for all human beings from the very young to the very old. And despite them not remembering what you are talking about even after a short time, for those moments you engaged in conversation, it was meaningful.
Furthermore, the power of non-verbal communication should not be underestimated. According to David Givens, the Director of the Center for Nonverbal Studies in Spokane, Washington, “The emotional brain ‘gets’ touch communication more immediately that it understands words, which have to be processed first through the speech centers.” He adds, “If seeing is believing, touching is knowing.”
Your very presence, touch, and attention will communicate to them that you accept and love them.
That should be reason enough.
Do You Have a Loved One Suffering from Alzheimer's?
We've seen plenty of cases of Alzheimer's, not only how it can affect the individual but also the affect it can have on family and friends. It's a very hard situation to go through but hopefully this article helps. If you liked to learn more don't hestitate to reach out or give us a call at 1-844-480-8572.