Long-Term Care

TALKING TO ALZHEIMER’S RESIDENTS

LTC Nursing Assistant Trainer, July 19, 2006

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During the later stages of Alzheimer's disease, residents may talk with seeming fluency, but the sentences do not appear to make sense.  Some experts believe that there is meaning, at least to the resident, to these apparent ramblings.  CNA's can use the following tips to help residents with Alzheimer's disease communicate better: 
      
*Look for key words or for the emotion behind the words, to understand what the resident might be expressing or feeling.

*Pay attention to the residents' nonverbal behavior.  How they use their eyes, hands, and body will give you clues to what they are trying to say.

*Continue to converse with non-responsive residents.  When interaction is not possible, explain to them what is occurring, using simple words.

*Show affection through smiles, hugs, or a pat on the shoulders.



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