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Use calm, positive body language to talk to someone with dementiaCommunicating with someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be made easier with some new techniques. The damage in their brain has changed the way your older adult hears, processes, and responds to conversation. That’s why it’s necessary to adapt the way we communicate to match their abilities. Often, the nonverbal messages we send with our body language and facial expressions come through more clearly than the words we speak. And sometimes, the nonverbal messages don’t match the words we use, which causes confusion. But when we use body language and facial expressions that help seniors clearly and easily understand our meaning, it reduces confusion, agitation, and anger and also increases cooperation. Using these nonverbal communication techniques to talk to someone with dementia makes caregiving easier and improves quality of life for both of you. We explain what nonverbal communication is and share 6 helpful tips that you can use right away. What are nonverbal dementia communication techniques?There are many different types of nonverbal communication, including: 1. Facial expressions 2. Body movements and posture 3. Gestures 4. Eye contact The way you look at someone can say a lot. Plus, eye contact helps you see the other person’s engagement level and reactions. 5. Touch For example, these mean very different things: a limp handshake, a gentle shoulder tap, a warm hug, a reassuring pat on the back, a patronizing pat on the head, or a controlling grip on the arm. 6. Space For example, standing too close can make someone uncomfortable. But staying at too far a distance could seem uncaring or uninterested. 7. Voice For example, imagine saying “fine” during a heated argument compared to saying it when you’re happy and content. The same word sounds completely different. 6 nonverbal dementia communication techniques1. Be patient and calm
When a situation is very frustrating, staying calm can be tough. In those cases, it’s worthwhile to step away for a minute to do some deep breathing or calming exercises so you can come back with a calm attitude. That helps you avoid a situation where your tension or frustration could subconsciously influence your older adult’s responses or behavior. 2. Keep voice, face, and body relaxed and positive
3. Be consistent 4. Make eye contact and respect personal space
5. Use gentle touch to reassure This could include:
6. Observe their nonverbal reactions Watch for signs of frustration, anger, or fear and adjust your responses and actions to calm or soothe as needed. Recommended for you: By DailyCaring Editorial Team
Effective clinical communication is two-way (or multi-way if between teams), structured and continuous communication that results in timely, accurate and appropriate transfer of information. It is tailored, open, honest and respectful, and there is the opportunity for clarification and feedback. |