Communicating With People With Dementia.

You need to find the right place, at the right time in the right surroundings.

Consider yourself.

Do you take in information or make your thoughts clear, when conditions are not ideal, for example if your bladder is bursting, you were up during the night with a sick child, or you have worked all morning without a break.

It would be very difficult indeed.

So when it comes to communicating with people with dementia who are battling a disorientating brain illness, it can be a nightmare, unless you make it as painless as possible.

I believe that apart from the severe stages, PWD can make a choice, be it an oral answer, a nod or shake of the head, or perhaps moving a part of their body such as a finger. The trick is to get to know how they best communicate.

Find the right place.

If someone transported you to a busy office or to a strange room, would you not be distracted. Unwanted stimulation from their surroundings would maybe detract from the value of the meeting. You have disrupted their routine and a routine is important to PWD. Perhaps meeting in their own house or room in a care home would be best, so they can concentrate on what you are saying.

As far as possible, make sure they are comfortable. Have they been to the toilet recently or have they had something to drink. Is there some liquid to sip as the meeting goes on. Are they still in their nightwear and you came too early. Are their clothes appropriate for the day and look comfy. Are they sweating, itching or cold looking. Some people while cold, do not feel or mention it. Is the room temperature at either extreme. If time passes and they are now in direct sunshine are they getting roasted. Are they sitting in a draught, or is the room stuffy and stifling. Are they sitting in a hard backed chair while they offered you their favourite chair. It’s best to check. Is their chair and yours are at right angles, it is vital you talk face to face. Ask if you can move your chair. Don’t approach from behind and only talk when they can see you clearly. If you are greeted at the door and follow them into a room, do not talk until you are both seated and at the same eye level.

... Continued on next page