How to Interact with Adults with Communication Difficulties

Transcription

1 How to Interact with Adults with Communication Difficulties Monique Fourcaudot Professional Practice Leader Speech Language Pathologist p.1

2 Causes of Communication Difficulties Stroke Head Injury Degenerative diseases such as: ALS Parkinson s disease Alzheimer s disease Dementia. p.2

3 Types of Communication Difficulties Aphasia language disorder that affects a person s ability to speak, understand, read or write. It does not affect the person s intelligence. Dysarthria a motor speech disorder that affects the person s ability to speak clearly. Speech may sound slurred or person make speak softly. Apraxia a speech programming disorder that affects a persons ability to say what they want to say, they may try to say something and a different sound/word comes out. They may also have difficulty answering yes/no questions. Hearing Impairment can affect the person s ability to hear to the extent that withdraw from participating in social activities. People with hearing loss are 2-5 times more likely to develop dementia. p.3

4 Types of Communication Difficulties Cognitive-Communication is having difficulty in one or more of the following cognitive skills: Memory Perception Insight and judgement Organization Orientation Language Processing speed Problem solving Reasoning Executive functioning p.4

5 Types of Communication Difficulties Someone with a cognitive communication disorders may have difficulty: Paying attention to a conversation Staying on topic Remembering information Responding accurately Understanding jokes and metaphors Following directions p.5

6 Communication Tips Reduced distractions in the environment. Turn off the radio or TV. Make eye contact and use the person s name when addressing them. Make sure that the person is wearing a working hearing aid and/or clean glasses, if prescribed. Some people have problems recognizing family and friends, you might want to introduce yourself and remind them who you are. p.6

7 Communication Tips Get close enough so they can see your facial expressions and any gestures you may use. Speak clearly at a slightly slower pace and use short and simple sentences. Be aware of your tone and body language. Remain calm and still and speak in a relaxed tone of voice. p.7

8 Communication Tips Use closed-ended questions which are focused and require a simple yes or no answer. Show respect and patience. Avoid using childish or demeaning language. Don t talk about the person as if they are not there; try to include them in conversations with others. p.8

9 Communication Tips Listen carefully to what the person is saying and observe both verbal and non-verbal communication. Be patient and try not to interrupt the person even if you think you know what they are saying. If the person is having difficulty finding the right words, you can offer a guess as long as they appear to want some help. p.9

10 Communication Tips Make your communication a two-way process that engages the person. Involve them in the conversation. If you don t understand what is said, avoid making assumptions. Check back with them to see you if have understood what they mean. p.10

11 Communication Tips Other ways of communicating Use actions as well as words. For example, if it is time to go for a walk, point to the door or bring the person s coat or sweater to illustrate what you mean. Use body movements such as pointing or demonstrating an action to help the person understand what you are saying. Humour can bring you closer, can release tension, and is good therapy. If the person seems sad, encourage them to express their feelings, and show your care and affection to provide reassurance. p.11

12 Talking to someone with aphasia Write down key words of what you are saying to help them understand Give choices write them down Ask yes/no questions Verify understanding to ensure the message was received Communication books/boards p.12

13 Interacting with someone with dementia Focus on the person s abilities Be reassuring and positive Use the senses to connect Touch hold their hand Hearing read to the person, sing together, play music Meet the person where they are and accepting their new reality Avoid contradicting them or convincing them that what they believe is untrue or inaccurate Remember to CONNECT not to CORRECT p.13

14 For more communication tips Contact your Speech-Language Pathologist Monique Fourcaudot ext nd Floor and 3 West Melanie Riva ext th Floor and 3 East For hearing aid support and information call the Hearing Aid Hotline ext to speak to a Communicative Disorders Technician Fahrin Kaba Kimberly Ayala p.14