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Communication Tips to Elderly with Alzheimer’s

A senior women smiling.The most challenging part when taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease has to be the loss of translation between you and him or her who has Alzheimer’s disease. When facing a problem such as this one it is always advisable to remember some things; it may be frustrating but can help in the long run.

Keep calm
Always remember that your loved one (although they may not realize it) depends on you to not panic; therefore, it is your job to calm them. Most Alzheimer’s victims have no idea that they have this disease, so it is best not to panic them by reminding them that they are sick. At this point in their lifetime has stopped, and it won’t really matter whether they know if they’re sick or not; it will just take more time to calm them down if they panic by you telling them this. The best Way to go is with the drift.

Have patience
It will be frustrating trying to get someone with Alzheimer’s to have a conversation with you the way they normally used to. Just keep in mind that they have a disease that is keeping them from communicating with you properly.

Identify yourself
When attempting to talk to someone with Alzheimer’s disease, you must first tell them who you are and your relationship with them. For example, introducing yourself as a friend will almost always make an Alzheimer’s victim feel comfortable. Keep in mind to have good eye contact.

Call your elderly loved one by his or her name.
Addressing your elderly loved one by his or her first name will help get your loved one’s attention. It will also help in convincing them that you know them.

Sweet, simple, and to the point.
Never use big words or long phrases when speaking to elderly loved ones with Alzheimer’s, as this overwhelms them. Always ask one question at a time.

Repeat,  Repeat,  Repeat
It always takes some time for someone with Alzheimer’s to understand what they’re being told and what they are being asked. So repeat as often as they need you to and give them some time to respond, and if they don’t, let some time pass and ask again.

Refrain from using statements that might seem literal.
Try not to say anything such as “jump in” you don’t want your elderly loved one with Alzheimer’s to take what you said seriously and actually jump.

Although Alzheimer’s disease can be and seem very scary it is definitely not the end of the world for your aging parent. At some point in time, we are all going to have challenges such as this, some more than others, but when it comes to elderly home care, aging partners, and seniors who have Alzheimer’s, it is always best to keep yourself positive.