Dementia can make it difficult for seniors to control their emotions and find the right words to say. Since poor communication can cause a lot of frustration and anxiety for seniors with dementia, it’s important to be cautious and plan your words before speaking. Make sure not to say the following things because they can be hurtful or upsetting for a senior loved one with dementia.
1. Do You Remember This?
Many seniors don’t like being asked to recall something, as it makes them realize their memory is fading. Avoid asking what your loved one did yesterday, if he or she remembers your name, or whether he or she recalls details about past events. Try explaining the facts yourself instead of asking open-ended questions about them.
Dementia can make it difficult for older adults to manage everyday activities. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of elderly home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
2. Actually, that’s Not Right
Try not to correct your loved one all the time, even if he or she uses the wrong word for an object, thinks it’s a different season, or makes an incorrect statement. Arguing about reality could be a frustrating and pointless task for both of you.
3. Aww, Do You Need Help with that, Sweetie?
Using baby talk can make seniors with dementia feel patronized and infantilized. Always speak to your loved one like he or she is an adult. Try to let your parent figure things out independently instead of jumping in to assist.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of in-home care. Tucson Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
4. Sorry, Your Loved One Is Dead
It’s common for seniors to speak about deceased siblings, parents, and spouses as if they’re still alive. Telling your loved one the person is dead could make him or her depressed or angry. These negative emotions can linger on for quite some time, so it’s best not to bring up a loved one’s death.
5. You Don’t Live/Work There Anymore
Seniors with dementia often get confused and try to leave their current locations to go to their old homes or previous jobs. Instead of confusing and upsetting your loved one by arguing, try to distract him or her. You can say something like “Tonight we’ll sleep here, but we’ll go home later” to soothe and sidetrack your loved one.
6. I’ve Already Told You That!
It may be frustrating when your loved one repeatedly asks the same question, but try to stay patient. Getting angry could give your parent the impression you don’t like him or her. Try to remain understanding, and use a positive tone when you talk with your loved one.
Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Tucson live-in care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional live-in caregivers from Home Care Assistance to enhance his or her quality of life. Call us at (520) 276-6555 to learn about our comprehensive in-home care plans.