Caring for someone with dementia can be challenging for family members and caregivers. Not only does it requires a great deal of empathy, patience and understanding, but it can also be emotionally, physically and mentally taxing. However, caring for those living with dementia can also be incredibly rewarding. Healthcare professionals or caregivers have the opportunity to improve the quality of life for those with dementia and help them lead fulfilling lives. They also provide support to family members and help them overcome communication difficulties associated with caring for someone with dementia. Read on to learn about the importance of effective communication in a memory care unit.

Communicating with Individuals with Dementia

Effective communication is essential for managing daily interactions with individuals with dementia. Here are some tips to help you communicate with them effectively:

Use simple, concise language: With a soft, comforting voice, use simple words to clearly convey your message. If the person has difficulty understanding, use gestures, verbal cues, written words or pictures.
Use a positive tone and body language: Be respectful and friendly when communicating. Avoid negative body language and facial expressions such as crossing your arms or scowling.
Listen patiently: Allow the person time to comprehend inquiries or new information before responding. If they have trouble finding the right words, try suggesting some. Always make an effort to understand the thoughts and intentions behind their comments, especially if they are anxious or unhappy.
Do not argue: People with dementia may occasionally confuse reality and imagination and may insist something happened when it did not. Avoid arguing or attempting to correct them. Focus on their emotions instead and provide reassurance and support in your response.

Communicating with Family Members

For loved ones in Memory Care, family members should be counseled on what to expect in the upcoming weeks and months. Caregivers should provide written information about the specific types of dementia affecting their loved ones. Here are some things a Memory Care community should do:

Remind family members that their loved ones are not acting out, being disobedient or pretending to be someone they are not. They simply cannot control their condition.
Help family members realize that their loved ones require specialized care and that dementia is not a normal part of aging.
Explain to family members how they can help their loved ones cope with the end-of-life stage.
Provide stress management and self-care information.
Reassure family members that their loved ones will go through a period of adjustment and that behavioral changes observed during this period are normal.

Helping Family Members to Communicate with Their Loved Ones

Communication between family members and their loved ones with dementia follows many of the same rules as communication between caregivers and those under their care. Family members should receive counseling on how to react to their loved ones’ verbally and physically aggressive behavior. They should also learn how to handle questions that show their loved ones are confused about their current location or what they are doing, which is common among those with dementia.

If you’re looking for Memory Care services for your loved ones, contact us today to find out more about what we offer!