Trust me I
know this is such a difficult time that we are going through, but it is extremely
important that we keep a positive attitude, I know it’s a tough one. Seeing our
loved ones decline every day a little more is very distressing to us. We need to
learn, As I always say we need to keep informed always seek new ideas, and educate
ourselves on what to expect. Don’t forget about taking care of yourself, and do not lose
yourself on this road, It’s a bumpy one and you better hold on because it’s
going to change you. It will be up to you how you’ll survive this journey. I
urge you to keep a positive attitude!!
Let's talk about how to communicate with our loved ones affected by Alzheimer's or Dementia;
Always Agree
= Why argue, go with the flow. As they say “Read the room” In this instance, it’s
“Read the person” I always approach a person by touching their shoulder and making eye contact.
Redirect = Never,
ever try to reason, it’s not going to work period.
Reassure =
Please don’t lecture, it is wasted energy.
Reminisce =
A lot of people won’t agree with me, I do use the word “remember” or “remember
when”…. And it opens the door for a positive conversation.
Never,
never, NEVER.. Say “I told you” or “Don’t you remember we already talked about
this” Oh, my! That’s opening a huge can of worms that you may not be prepared
to handle.
Always
encourage according to their abilities and if it’s not appropriate for them,
get creative and diffuse their intention. Change the subject, and focus on
something else. Stay away from saying “You Can’t”
I have
adopted the following words into my interactions with everyone not just ALZ or
Dementia “Can you please help me with this” or “Do you think you can help me
with this” Using these phrases works in two ways; one they feel useful, even if
it’s for a few seconds. You are not giving a command, which may not be well
received.
Never
Condescend…. Need I say more? Let’s put their shoes on, how would you like it?
Always keep,
cool, calm, and collected they feed off our emotions, Be careful with your tone
of voice. Mine can get out of hand; my daughter always knows what mood I’m in
just by listening to the tone of my voice. Keep that in mind.
Avoid,
avoid, sarcasm or irony. I do have to confess that one thing my mom has held
too much to my dismay is sarcasm, It comes out of nowhere and I’m always
surprised when I hear it.
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