Following are some practical ways of helping you care for a person with memory loss and confusion.
A person with memory loss and confusion may have trouble understanding what you say or may find it hard to tell others what he or she thinks or needs. Try these practical tips to make communicating easier.
1. Get the person’s attention.
Use the person’s first name and make eye contact before you begin talking.
Try a gentle touch on the arm to get the person’s attention. Let the person touch you, too.
Smiling is another way to show that you care and that you want to communicate.
2. Use short, simple sentences.
Keep sentences brief and easy to understand. For example, “Jane, please sit in that chair.”
Say each sentence slowly and clearly.
Give the person time to understand what you said and time to respond.
3. Repeat sentences exactly the same way.
If you need to repeat a question or instruction, use the same words each time.
If the person doesn’t respond, you may be using a word he or she no longer understands. Try using another word that means the same thing.
4. Be specific.
Try, “Here is your toast” instead of, “It’s time for breakfast.”
Say, “Do you want your jacket now?” instead of, “Do you want this?”
5. Offer simple choices.
Ask questions that require yes or no answers.
Limit the number of choices in a question. For example, ask, “Would you like a glass of orange juice?” instead of, “What would you like to drink?”
Ask only one question at a time.
5. Use labels.
Label frequently used items. Use labels to identify people in photos.
A picture of a toilet on the bathroom door is often helpful.
6. Pay attention to what is really being said.
Try to understand the meaning behind what the person is saying. For example, “I want to go home” may mean, “I’m anxious and need reassurance.”
Repeat back what you hear. For example, “You’re hungry, aren’t you?”
Look and listen for clues in behavior to determine what the person needs or wants. Pay attention to the person’s facial expressions, body language and tone of voice.
7. Pay attention to your body language, too! Even if the person doesn’t understand what you are saying, he or she may be able to sense anger, frustration, pleasure or approval.
Offer praise and encouragement whenever possible.
8. Use signals other than words.
Wave or gently touch a person’s arm to say hello.
Smile or nod to show you understand what he or she is saying.
Motion with your hand to invite the person to join an activity.
Show the person what you want. Try pointing to something as well as naming it.
9. Reduce distractions.
Check for physical distractions such as glare from windows.
Make sure the person is using his or her glasses or hearing aid.
Reduce distracting noise or activity such as TV, loud music or large groups of people.
Contact Select Home Care today for more information.
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