A Positive Approach Maria Mathews Client Support Manager Thank you to the Thomas Sill Foundation for its commitment to community education for care providers.

Communication

A Positive Approach

Maria MathewsClient Support Manager

Thank you to the Thomas Sill Foundation for its commitment to community education for care providers in Manitoba.

Alzheimer Disease & Other Dementias

Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common type of dementia.

It is not a normal part of aging. There were approximately 480,000 (1.5%

of population) Canadians living with ADRD in 2008.

By 2038 that number is expected to grow to 1,125,000 Canadians (2.8% of population).

A Person with Dementia…

May have difficulties: identifying everyday objects

and their surroundings. understanding the passage

of time. recognizing family or

friends. recognizing their own

reflection. may create stories to

explain things. that don’t make sense to them.

4

Perceptions

A person with Dementia

or

A Person with dementia

Perceptions

Group ExerciseWhat comes to mind when you think of a person with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease?

A Person with Dementia Maintains:

Their “Personhood” life history a desire to belong affection sense of humour desire to contribute expertise and knowledge need for care

Communication is:

7% Verbal38% Tone55% Non-verbal

Non Verbal Communication

Meaningful Touch

Tone of Voice

FOCUSED COMMUNICATION

F-face the personO-Orientate the person to the topicC-Continue on the same topicU-Unstick by suggesting a wordS-Structure questions so choice can be

recognizedE-Exchange ideas in daily conversationD-Direct, short, simple sentences-D. Ripich; San Antonio TX 1996

The “Approach”•Approach slowly from the front and move to the side.•Maintain eye contact.•Use positive body language (handshake) or crouch to be on same level.•Call by name and introduce yourself.

A “Positive Approach”

•Use short, concise language•Offer choices •Ask for their help•Ask them to try•Break the task down step by step•If not working, stop, assess why & try again!

Making the Most of Your Time Together Know something about them. Relive the past with them. Enjoy the times when the person has

“crystal moments.” Make connections through using:

A smiling approach A gentle touch An invitation to spend time together Enjoying the “crystal” moments

Communicate in Daily Situations Encourage the person to participate in

conversation at meal times, with others in social settings and at the person’s leisure.

Approach the person expecting them to have something to contribute.

Initiate conversation about topics from the person’s long term memory and draw them toward their adult experience.

Questions?

Maria Mathews Manager of Client Support

Alzheimer Society of Manitoba [email protected]

www.alzheimer.mb.ca