Communication Strategies in the Alzheimer's Family

Article submitted by Jo Ann White, Rn, BSN; Dianne Boazman, LCSW, CMC; and Betty Landreaux, LCSW, CMC, co-owners of Home Care Solutions in Metairie, LA.
For more information, they can be reached at 504-828-0900.

Do you get frustrated when you cannot seem to make your loved one understand you? Does your loved one find it increasingly difficult to express himself in words?

Communication is affected in all individuals with Alzheimer Disease, as verbal skills are gradually lost. It becomes more and more difficult to put thoughts and sentences together and to make sense of the words other people say. The person with Alzheimer Disease begins to rely on non-verbal information to understand messages. Sensitive, ongoing communication is important, no matter how difficult it may become or how confused the person may appear.

Things to Remember when Communicating with the Person with Alzheimer Disease

• Be patient and supportive
  Let him know you are listening and try to understand what he's saying. Be reassuring and give him time to think and explain his thoughts.
   
• Simplify your own communication
  Use short familiar words and sentences and a low, slow voice. Minimize questions and speak in positive statements. Give one-step directions and minimize explanations. Try using written reminders when verbal ones are too confusing.
   
• Avoid correcting or arguing
  Do not interrupt or tell him what he says in incorrect. Listen and try to find meaning in what is being said. Rather than disagreeing, try to use their comment as a topic to reminisce about together (for examples, sharing thoughts about a loved one who has died.) Redirect frustration with other topics or activities.
   
• Limit distractions
  Find a place that is quiet so he can focus on thoughts. Balance stimulation with calm, quiet times that allow for expression.
   
• Use and encourage nonverbal communication
  Use positive and friendly facial expressions and maintain eye contact. When word messages are difficult, use nonverbals such as pointing, gesturing and touching.