If you Early Stage Alzheimer’s: A Guideline for Communicating with your Loved One
If you have just discovered that your loved one has developed Alzheimer’s, you may feel unsure about the future. The onset of the disease features brain decay that can cause difficulty in communicating with your loved one. The patient may find themselves suffering lapses in memory, difficulty organizing their thoughts, and possibly ending communication altogether.
If your loved has developed Alzheimer’s, here is a guideline for fostering healthy communication in the early development of the disease.
Specificity is Key
The best way to maintain healthy communication is to keep in mind that specificity is everything. One example of this would be to lessen the amount of pronouns used in communication.
This strategy is because much of today’s modern conversation is based on context clues. For example, if one were to be speaking about two people and refer to them by pronouns instead of names, the recipient would use context clues to ascertain who is being mentioned.
Those with Alzheimer’s may have some difficulty following a conversation based entirely on pronouns; thus, it is always a good strategy to use names. Be specific, direct, and as clear as you can. Keep eye contact with your loved one, and let them know your intention.
Include Your Loved One
When a patient develops Alzheimer’s, it is easy to fall into the trap of excluding them from conversations. When discussing things like healthcare, home care, and plans for safety, it’s tempting to simply direct all communication to those organizing the care.
This trap can further confuse your loved one, or may hinder communication between you and the patient with Alzheimer’s. Instead, speak to your loved one. Take the time to listen to their thoughts and needs. Try not to rush them, or ask them to ‘get to the point.’
Remember, it is okay to laugh! Many of the effects of Alzheimer’s will create lapses in communication that can be comical. According to the Alzheimer’s association, “humor lightens the mood and makes communication easier.”
Everyone is Different
It should be noted that Alzheimer’s in unique to each individual. Communication could be hindered in one person and untouched within another. Take into account the personal needs of your loved one and tailor a plan to fit them, which may include elderly assistance services.
With personalization, patience, and an emphasis on care, you can develop a communication style that is perfect for you and your loved one!
If you have just discovered that your loved one has developed Alzheimer’s, you may feel unsure about the future. The onset of the disease features brain decay that can cause difficulty in communicating with your loved one. The patient may find themselves suffering lapses in memory, difficulty organizing their thoughts, and possibly ending communication altogether.
If your loved has developed Alzheimer’s, here is a guideline for fostering healthy communication in the early development of the disease.
Specificity is Key
The best way to maintain healthy communication is to keep in mind that specificity is everything. One example of this would be to lessen the amount of pronouns used in communication.
This strategy is because much of today’s modern conversation is based on context clues. For example, if one were to be speaking about two people and refer to them by pronouns instead of names, the recipient would use context clues to ascertain who is being mentioned.
Those with Alzheimer’s may have some difficulty following a conversation based entirely on pronouns; thus, it is always a good strategy to use names. Be specific, direct, and as clear as you can. Keep eye contact with your loved one, and let them know your intention.
Include Your Loved One
When a patient develops Alzheimer’s, it is easy to fall into the trap of excluding them from conversations. When discussing things like healthcare, home care, and plans for safety, it’s tempting to simply direct all communication to those organizing the care.
This trap can further confuse your loved one, or may hinder communication between you and the patient with Alzheimer’s. Instead, speak to your loved one. Take the time to listen to their thoughts and needs. Try not to rush them, or ask them to ‘get to the point.’
Remember, it is okay to laugh! Many of the effects of Alzheimer’s will create lapses in communication that can be comical. According to the Alzheimer’s association, “humor lightens the mood and makes communication easier.”
Everyone is Different
It should be noted that Alzheimer’s in unique to each individual. Communication could be hindered in one person and untouched within another. Take into account the personal needs of your loved one and tailor a plan to fit them.
With personalization, patience, and an emphasis on care, you can develop a communication style that is perfect for you and your loved one!
