DO

  • talk to the person in a tone of voice that conveys respect and dignity;
  • keep your explanations short. Use clear and flexible language;
  • maintain eye contact by positioning yourself at the persons eye level. Look directly at the person and ensure that you have their attention before you speak. Always begin by introducing yourself and letting them know what you propose to do;
  • use visual cue’s where possible;
  • be realistic in expectations;
  • observe and attempt to interpret the person’s non verbal communication;
  • paraphrase and use a calm and reassuring tone of voice;
  • speak slowly and say individual words clearly. Use strategies to reduce the effects of hearing impairment;
  • encourage talk about things that they are familiar with;
  • use touch if appropriate.

DON’T

  • talk to the person in ‘baby talk’ or as if you are talking to a child;
  • use complicated words or phrases and long sentences;
  • Glare at or eyeball the person you are talking to
  • Begin a task without explaining who you are and what you are going to do
  • talk to the person without eye contact, such as while rummaging in a drawer to select clothing;
  • try and compete with a distracting environment;
  • provoke a catastrophic reaction through unrealistic expectations or by asking the person to do more than one task at a time;
  • disregard your own non verbal communication;
  • disregard talk that may seem to be “rambling”;
  • shout or talk too fast;
  • interrupt unless it cannot be helped;
  • attempt to touch or invade their personal space if they are showing signs of fear or aggression.

TIPS FOR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS

People with dementia and memory problems live in your area, probably on your street. Your might also have friends or neighbours with dementia.

Common signs of dementia are confusion, forgetfulness, struggling to find words and repetitiveness. This can make everyday situations stressful.   For more information please see link below:

2964-07 Shops Business Setup

2964-07 Friends and Neighbours Setup