Communication for the Family of a Person With Alzheimer’s Disease
Affects the brain
B)
They only have
present moment – this minute.
C)
We need to change
as caregivers
B)
I want them to
have a good time
C)
How they feel
right now is important
B)
They can’t hear
question, hang on to it & apply to do today.
(Taking
medication was example given)
A) “You never come to see me.” It makes you feel bad.
B)
Do something
enjoyable. Don’t become upset or angry
over what they say.
Language Dis-fluent – Can’t find right word.
B)
Difficult to
express self in detail.
C)
Ask for salt
instead of sugar. Just hand them the
sugar. Don’t try to teach how to talk.
D)
Be respectful,
kind instead of arguing.
B)
Soothe the person
and give the same answer.
A)
At bath time if
you rush, speak harshly, or force it.
B)
It may be a way
of communicating to you when they hit, kick, or bite you.
C)
Just stop. Try again later.
A) “Time for bath. Let’s go.” Instead communicate by not talking about the bath.
B) Gesture, or use body language.
C) Get eye contact
D)
Don’t say “why,
where” - Use non verbal
Use distraction to get chore
done.
A) Sing when relaxed & do body language as not paying attention to chore she doesn’t like (bath).
B)
They understand
context – not words
C)
Use variety of
cues – pull up chair & sit down as a cue
D)
Maximize odds
they catch your meaning.
A) Use “I” messages.
B)
Lead with ”I’d like a snack before getting to bed.” Or “I’m
getting sleepy.” Instead of “go to bed.”
C)
Sing songs.
Don’t talk down to
them. It doesn’t help.
A) Talk adult to adult so not insulting.
B)
Use visual and
social cues.
C)
Have drinks ready
and at the table.
D)
Say, “Please sit
down.”
When asked questions
Example: “Where is
mom?” (She has been dead a long time)
A)
Just say, “She’s
not here.” Tell me about her
Example: “Where are my babies?” (This happens at meal times.)
A)
Just say, “They
are sleeping.”
It is not affective to
bring back to present day reality.
How often should I
visit? They don’t understand or recognize
me.
A) Visit because it is important to you.
B)
They may catch
some things.
C)
Were you able to
enjoy the moment?
Doesn’t recognize family
member any more (wife sitting beside
him)
A)
Person with
Alzheimer could talk and tell all about wife, just didn’t recognize her sitting
beside him.
B)
They can share
those precious memories.
C)
It is worthwhile
to share.