Communicating with a memory-impaired loved one can often bring up feelings of frustration for everyone involved.
When working with a memory impaired loved one the inconsistency in a person’s memory retention can become overwhelming for both the caretaker and the person suffering from memory loss related to dementia or Alzheimer’s.
It’s important (especially on hard days) to keep in mind that the lack of memory retention is a brain disorder caused by a disease. Sometimes repeating facts about the brain impairment can remind us it is truly an illness and that can help open ourselves up to clearer communication with the sufferer.
The most important part of communicating with a memory-impaired loved one is patience. Patience is the main ingredient when it comes to communicating smoothly.
Here are some more tips to make communication less stressful with a memory-impaired loved one.
- When giving your loved one directions make them short and clear. It’s difficult for memory-impaired sufferers to follow multi-step directions. Having the directions clear and concise can lessen feelings of frustration for both parties.
- Remember your loved one is also having feelings of frustration. Let them verbalize their frustration and be understanding.
- It’s important to be compassionate and loving. Try to not correct them or talk down to your loved one even if you are both feeling upset or misunderstood.
- Try not to over test them. Playing memory games that are easy and fun are fantastic, but constantly quizzing your loved one to jog their memory can lead them to feeling overwhelmed quickly. Keep your memory games short and sweet.
- Try to not take comments or outbursts personally. Think about how frustrating it must be for them to live with so much confusion. Try and stay calm and keep your loved one on track to lessen their emotional stress.
- Make a plan and expect it to change. It’s always a good idea to go into a visit with a plan of activities that you might be able to accomplish. When those plans change, as they often do, depending on your loved ones attitude or mood (we all have good days and bad days) let the new plans unfold without stress.
At the end of the day remember the most important and practical advice for a less stressful visit is patience. Communicating with memory-impaired sufferers takes being open to slow and clear interactions during conversation.
If you are looking for more information about understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia care or are open to discussing when it might be time to ask for help about decisions for the future care, call Eldercare Services at (866) 324-0263. We believe that joy can be infused into every life—no matter what the deficit or issue being faced.