Senior Help Experts Share Tips for Communicating with Seniors Who Have Dementia
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, is the 6th leading cause of death in America. According to the Alzheimer's Association, 1 in 3 seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Due to memory loss, it can be extremely difficult to care for and talk to seniors with dementia, but that doesn’t make it any less important. With just a little reading, caregivers can learn some of the most effective ways to communicate with those who are suffering from dementia, which will result in a happier and more peaceful life for them. Here are some tips that senior help experts say will help you effectively communicate with someone suffering from dementia.
Avoid using vague pronouns
He, she and they are common pronouns used in everyday language, but for seniors suffering from dementia, these pronouns can be extremely confusing. Experts agree that using names whenever possible will help seniors follow along in conversation and know exactly who you are talking about.
Use your face to do the talking
It might sound silly, but maintaining eye contact and keeping a smile on your face is one of the easiest ways to facilitate clear communication between you and someone suffering from dementia. These nonverbal cues help seniors understand that you’re friendly and that you’re focusing on the conversation at hand, according to senior help experts.
Be as patient as you can
This is a great life tip in general, but it is especially important when you are trying to communicate with someone who is suffering from dementia. Try to remember that seniors with dementia can have a hard time following conversations and should be given as much patience as possible. If you get short or upset with them for not following, it makes the disease they’re suffering from even worse.
Dementia is quite common among senior citizens, but that doesn’t make it any easier to deal with. Senior help experts agree that there are some ways that we can help seniors communicate by following a few simple tips. Being patient, being specific and using nonverbal cues are just a few of the ways you can help facilitate communicate between yourself and someone suffering from dementia.