Communication improv has been making its way into the medical world. Some studies show that improv can be a very effective tool for dementia patients. As a home care services provider or family care provider, you need to understand that improv isn’t a fix for dementia. However, it can help your elderly loved one to have more good days than bad ones. Keep reading to learn more about how you can implement improv and help your elderly loved one with their dementia.
Say Yes as Much as Possible
Stop saying “No”. Everyone likes to hear the word “yes”, even people with dementia. People also like to know that they are being understood. This means that whenever possible you should use the word yes. It will make your elderly loved one happy and help them see that you care about their feelings. There might be a time when your elderly loved one says something like, I dated someone from the Rolling Stones back in the day. If this happens, just nod your head or agree with them. It will show your elderly loved one that you accept their reality and understand them.
Being Specific
Did you know that details are important in improv? They give a person a point to go to during their skit. For people who are suffering from dementia, details can give them a way to connect better. Dementia can often make abstract thinking a bit of a challenge. One way to help with this challenge is to be more specific. For instance, instead of telling your elderly loved one that it is “lunchtime”, you can try telling them that it is time to eat a “hot gooey grilled cheese sandwich”. You could even add how the grilled cheese would be exceptionally great dipped in a yummy tomato soup. Be as specific as possible.
Accepting Reality
It is important to step into your elderly loved one’s world. This means you have to accept their reality. Anything goes when it comes to improv. At times, this is true when it comes to the life of a dementia patient. If your elderly loved one says they did a certain thing years ago (even if they didn’t), you should agree. Denying them their reality will only cause an argument and make life hard for everyone involved.
Improv could help your elderly loved one to have more good days than bad ones. It could make life a little easier for everyone (including you and the home care services providers). Just remember that everyone is different. Improv might not work for every person with dementia. However, it could work for you and your elderly loved one.
Sources: https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/how-improv-helping-patients-alzheimers-disease
If you are considering Home Care Services in Fort White FL, for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts Home Care. Call today: 352-225-3727.
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