Communicating with older people who have dementia is a challenge. It requires a high level of competence in communication skills. However, there are ways in which one can improve their skills as suggested by Vries. Firstly, the skills could be improved through education and skills training on how to handle a dementia patient (Vries, 2013). Secondly, there is the use of recollection interventions and use of memory books, which helps in understanding the patient’s background.
The caregivers need to understand the communication challenges experienced, especially when interacting with older people with dementia. The challenges encountered by these patients make it difficult for them to express themselves or comprehend communication. Accordingly, the patient experiences the emotional agony that causes intermittent changes in moods (Vries, 2013). In this case, the communication between the patient and a caregiver is affected; hence, the quality of the relationship between them is undermined.
The caregivers, family, and friends need to understand the communication requirements of older people with dementia. Since most of the older dementia patients cannot express themselves fully, it is imperative for the caregivers to pay attention to every detail when communicating. They should focus more on the non-verbal communication and the emotional changes of the person (Vries, 2013).
Thirdly, the caregivers should come up with strategies, which will enhance communication with older people who have dementia. Some of these approaches include differentiating the needs of an individual who have dissimilar forms of the condition. One of the most effective strategies is the use of a memory book where the caregiver collects information about the patient that helps in understanding the patient needs (Vries, 2013). It is important for the caregiver to listen to the patient to enhance better health care provision. Lastly, the caregivers should use repetition, slow speech, and closed questions to ensure the patient understands the details.
Consequently, there are actions that a caregiver may take in ensuring they effectively communicate with the patients. Firstly, the caregiver should always initiate communication to make the patient feel comfortable. When talking to the patient, one should always maintain eye contact and encourage them to have a seat since standing may seem intimidating. The technique would be effective for communicating with patients who are not visually impaired.
Secondly, to ensure that the patient understands the communication from the caregivers, the caretaker should speak calmly and clearly, while using short and simple sentences since this will help the patients comprehend the information presented. When asking questions, one should use queries that do not require complicated answers. Additionally, it is advisable to use closed questions that require a yes or no answer (Vries, 2013). The strategy will be effective for patients who are extremely affected by dementia since they might have a memory lapse.
On the other hand, an individual may adopt one of Watson’s Caritas to implement the above nursing actions when providing care, especially when communicating with older individuals who have dementia. Specifically, I would develop and sustain loving, trusting-caring relationships in my approach. Therefore, when love develops between the patient and the caregiver, both of them can coexist, a situation that plays a significant role in understanding the needs of the patient (Watson, 2013). As such, the patient learns to trust the caregiver, hence ensuring effective communication between the two.
References
Watson J. (2013). Caritas Process. Watson Caring Science Institute. Retrieved from: http://watsoncaringscience.org/jean-bio/caring-science-theory/10-caritas-processes/
Vries K. (2013). Communicating with older people with dementia. Nursing Older People, 25(4), 30-37.
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