Alzheimer's is a progressive neurological disorder that damages the area of brain responsible for memory, intelligence, judgment, language and behavior.
Alzheimer's disease has profound effect on language.
The disease affects speech and the use of words, as well as the understanding of the words.
As the disease progresses an Alzheimer's patient looks more confused and finds it difficult to communicate and convey his feelings.
Thus, establishing communication with Alzheimer's patient becomes a challenging task for caregivers and family members.
Here are some of the strategies you can use to improve communication with your loved ones if he or she has Alzheimer's disease.
The first thing that you have to keep in mind while communicating with an Alzheimer's patient is that there should be less distraction.
It becomes easier to communicate with an Alzheimer's patient in silent ambient and if other things are not happening simultaneously.
If there is any background noise, try to remove it.
This means switching off the radio and television.
Trying to speak over background voices may only further confuse the Alzheimer's patient.
The tone of your voice is very important while communicating with an Alzheimer's patient.
Speak slowly and clearly use simple words and short sentences.
Do not shout at patient.
Give the person enough time to process and understand what you are saying.
Use gestures and facial expressions while communicating as it is easier for an Alzheimer's patient to understand visual expressions.
Use the patient's name often as you are speaking to them.
Begin each and every sentence with the person's name and do not forget to introduce yourself by uttering your name because the person may not always remember you.
Allow the person to talk and give him or her sufficient time to respond.
Encourage the person to participate in conversations and you can use visual aids, if necessary.
Try to listen beyond what the patient is saying.
The quality of life for people suffering from Alzheimer's disease greatly depends on the way you interact with them.
It is also equally important to treat the person with respect, love and affection.
An Alzheimer's patient may respond better to kindness than to harsh words or frustration and irritation.
Alzheimer's disease has profound effect on language.
The disease affects speech and the use of words, as well as the understanding of the words.
As the disease progresses an Alzheimer's patient looks more confused and finds it difficult to communicate and convey his feelings.
Thus, establishing communication with Alzheimer's patient becomes a challenging task for caregivers and family members.
Here are some of the strategies you can use to improve communication with your loved ones if he or she has Alzheimer's disease.
The first thing that you have to keep in mind while communicating with an Alzheimer's patient is that there should be less distraction.
It becomes easier to communicate with an Alzheimer's patient in silent ambient and if other things are not happening simultaneously.
If there is any background noise, try to remove it.
This means switching off the radio and television.
Trying to speak over background voices may only further confuse the Alzheimer's patient.
The tone of your voice is very important while communicating with an Alzheimer's patient.
Speak slowly and clearly use simple words and short sentences.
Do not shout at patient.
Give the person enough time to process and understand what you are saying.
Use gestures and facial expressions while communicating as it is easier for an Alzheimer's patient to understand visual expressions.
Use the patient's name often as you are speaking to them.
Begin each and every sentence with the person's name and do not forget to introduce yourself by uttering your name because the person may not always remember you.
Allow the person to talk and give him or her sufficient time to respond.
Encourage the person to participate in conversations and you can use visual aids, if necessary.
Try to listen beyond what the patient is saying.
The quality of life for people suffering from Alzheimer's disease greatly depends on the way you interact with them.
It is also equally important to treat the person with respect, love and affection.
An Alzheimer's patient may respond better to kindness than to harsh words or frustration and irritation.
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