How to Communicate with Nursing Home Residents with Dementia and Alzheimer’s is contributed by Walton Law, in October, 2024, as an online article at VibrantSeniorOptions.com
Communication is Key
Communication is key to any relationship, including between nursing home residents and caregivers. When you place a parent, spouse or loved one in a nursing home, you expect them to be in good hands. It is the staff’s responsibility to meet their needs, and a big part of that is communication. Effective communication helps put residents at ease, especially those with dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Nursing home staff who interact with cognitively impaired residents should have specialized training, including communication techniques that account for the residents’ limitations. Here are some helpful tips for caregivers and things to look for when assessing whether staff are communicating effectively with your loved one.
Communication tips for caregivers in nursing homes
- Speak slowly and clearly with simple instructions: Avoid fast talk or complex sentences that residents may have trouble processing.
- Wait for their response: Give them time to respond before adding more information or asking follow-up questions.
- Avoid telling them they are wrong: Dementia patients often get facts mixed up. Rather than correcting them, redirect the conversation to a new topic. For instance, if they ask about a deceased spouse, avoid saying, “Don’t you remember? They died.” This could cause them to relive the loss.
- Avoid open-ended questions: Ask specific yes or no questions instead. For example, “Do you want to read this newspaper?” or “Do you want some water?”
Ensure Nursing Home Staff Communicate with Your Loved One
It can be challenging for nursing home residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s to engage in conversations or express their needs. If you suspect neglect or abuse, take action immediately.
For help with a potential nursing home abuse claim, contact Walton Law’s award-winning legal team. They serve seniors in Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish and Island counties and offer free, confidential consultations. Walton Law works on a contingency basis, so they don’t get paid unless you win.
Live chat with their team at www.waltonlawapc.com or call 24/7 at (360) 503-0231.
Walton Law, APC
Washington Office
360-503-0231
waltonlawapc.com
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