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Communicating with Senior Loved Ones: Top 5 Tips

Communicating with Senior Loved Ones: Top 5 Tips

Communication is an integral part of life and relationships. However, communicating effectively may be challenging with aging loved ones who experience deteriorating health. You may be having difficulty with communication if your senior family member is receiving in home care. To help you out, here are top 5 tips you should remember.

  1. Consider the environment

    The environment where you talk about certain topics plays a huge role in ensuring good communication. It is important to minimize the noise and distractions around your loved ones before you talk. This way, they can focus on the topics at hand.

    Lower the volume of the TV or radio or turn them off. As much as possible, talk to your loved one face-to-face so their focus will be on you. It is also best to be at the same eye level so they can see you better. This makes it clear that you’re interested in what your loved one has to say.

  2. Consider your loved one’s state

    When your loved one has a condition that requires in-home nursing care, their state of health may affect how they communicate with you. Certain days or some times of the day, you may find that your loved one is more receptive to communicating. Additionally, you may also need to take their current emotional state into consideration. If they are in pain or are grumpy, you cannot expect them to listen fully to you. Consider your loved one’s condition and physical and emotional state of health so you can get an idea on how to approach your conversation.

  3. Use a clear and modulated voice

    Most seniors have hearing issues. This may be caused by the physical effects of aging, or the side effects of medication, or both. Whatever the case may be, always use a clear and modulated voice. This will help your loved one hear you better and help you get your message across.

  4. Listen effectively

    Seniors love it when you listen to them. This makes them feel important and in control, especially when it comes to topics about medical conditions, home care and nursing care. Do not interrupt your loved one, and avoid filling in the blanks when he or she is trying to give opinions. You need to be patient.

  5. Use other communication methods, when necessary

    If your loved one’s condition results in the inability to talk, other communication methods are available. For instance, you can use sign language, lip reading, or writing. You can still converse by talking and soliciting information from your loved one, letting him or her know that you understand.

At Passionate Private Duty, we know the importance of communication, especially when providing in home personal care and nursing care services to you and your family members. We are passionate about delivering superior home care throughout Illinois and would be happy to talk to you more about how we can assist you and your loved ones at home. Call us today to learn more.

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