Good Communication helps to prevent inappropriate behaviors with clients who are suffering from Alzheimer's Disease or related Dementias.
Definition
Communication is the exchange of information, ideas and emotions. Communication involves the sending and receiving of messages. Thoughts, wishes and feelings are an important part of relationships. Communication involves attitude, tone of voice, facial expressions and body language. Inappropriate behaviors may be the result of the inability to express oneself or to understand others.
What approaches can the Personal Care Attendant use to aid the client in communicating?
- Try to let the client know you are trying to understand what they are saying.
- Try to establish eye contact. (Sometimes a light tap on the arm or shoulder will help the individual to look at you).
- Be reassuring and offer comfort.
- Give the client time to answer your questions since answers do not come quickly.
- Don't argue, disagree or be critical.
How can the Personal Care Attendant become an effective communicator?
- Identify yourself and do not approach the client from behind.
- Use short simple sentences and try not to use "big" words.
- Break tasks down into simple steps.
- Make a statement rather than ask a question.
- Ask one question at a time. If a question must be repeated use the same words.
- Wait for responses.
- Avoid slang words or words with more than one meaning.
- Use positives rather than negatives. · Use non-verbal cues.
- Do not insist on a conversation and avoid quizzing.
- If you cannot get the client's attention try communicating later.
- Use simple logic and reason.
- Be respectful and do not laugh at responses.
- Speak slowly and distinctly.
- Use a calm, gentle relaxed tone.
- Do not communicate your feelings or attitude through your tone of voice.
- Approach the client from the front.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Be aware of your stance and position of your hands.
- Use friendly facial expressions and smile.
- With dementia, sensory input (what you say must be heard).
- Clients with dementia are unable to repeat, retain, recall or respond to what is said.
