Tag Archives: Alzheimers

5 Tips on Communicating with Alzheimers or Dementia Patients

5 Tips on Communicating with Alzheimers or Dementia PatientsCommunicating with Alzheimers or Dementia Patients

Whether friend, family or caregiver, communicating with Alzheimers or dementia patients is stressful and often awkward and uncomfortable.

Consider how confusing and frustrating this must be to the individual coping with these changes. Here are some useful tips to ease tension and encourage open communication.

  1. Make eye contact as you enter the room. Look directly into their eyes when you talk. For the best results in establishing any communication, do not look down on the person. If they are seated, sit beside them when possible. Talking at eye level communicates genuine caring.
  2. Address the person by his/her name; the name they are familiar with. Be sure your voice and expressions give clear signs of love and concern. Avoid using “sweetie” or “honey” as they need to hear and recognize their own name.
  3. Be sensitive of the individuals’ personal space. A confused person may feel threatened if you are too close or you insist on hugging them. Observe heir reactions to know what touching is acceptable. A warm handshake and caring smile will help them grow comfortable in your presence and feel less threatened.
  4. Listen for key words or phrases. As you begin to understand what they are trying to talk about, try repeating a sentence or two in your own words. Letting others know you are truly wanting to understand will go a long way in opening dialog.
  5. Proceed with confidence. Remember the person you know and love is still there and most likely wants/needs to share his/her feelings. Do not be afraid to attempt conversation, however limited it may be.

As you find comfortable ways to show love and acceptance of your loved one, you will be rewarded. The reward may come in an unexpected kiss on the cheek, a squeeze of your hand, or a simple gleam in the eye of one hungering for assurance.

Imagine for a moment how you would feel if you could not share your feelings or desires with others. Often a confused person is waiting for affirmation and encouragement and you and I can do that for them.

Blessings on you as you give of your best to a hurting world.

Hugs,

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5 Simple Ways to Assess Caregiving Needs

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Do you have a family member or friend who may need help? Are you struggling with the decision to hire a caregiver or perhaps give of your time to help? Whether  caring for someone now or considering a hired caregiver, here are important questions to consider. Even if you are already the primary caregiver, it is very important for you to take time to assess needs; they change periodically.

Here are 5 areas to evaluate to determine current needs; especially to identify long-term caregiving issues you may face.

#1 Are there signs of dementia or Alzheimers? Can the person make or receive calls without aide? When left alone, will they make safe decisions if a stranger comes to the door? These issues will certainly help determine whether long-term or short-term care is needed.

#2 Will this person consistently take medicines at the proper time? If so, is someone available to fix them at the beginning of the week? You cannot simply depend upon what you are told, watch for daily behavioral changes, check their medicines when possible.

#3 What about the nutrition needs of the individual? Can they cook meals; will they eat at the appropriate times? Could Meals on Wheels be an alternative or is an in-home caregiver needed during the daytime? Does someone simply need to clean the refrigerator once a week and put in fresh foods?

#4 Are there signs of hygiene needs when you visit? Can the person take care of bathing and other personal needs or does someone need to assist? Has their mobility declined in such a way that falling may be an issue.

#5 Probably the most obvious and most often overlooked is the question of how much time is needed to meet the needs. Be sure to carefully consider this issue before hiring someone or before you commit to help. Even small tasks that require daily attention can be overwhelming after awhile. Do you have time? Do you have others to call upon for help?

I have found the simplest solutions can be overlooked in our busy-ness if we do not take time occasionally to re-evaluate our situation.

My book, MY MOTHER MY CHILD is filled with help and hope for those caring for others of all ages; autographed copies now available through this website.

Hugs,