Memory care provides personalized care, support, and a safe environment for those with dementia. While adult children can visit a parent with dementia in senior living, they can also maintain relations by talking on the phone.
However, communication can become challenging when a parent has dementia. Knowing how to navigate phone conversations with a parent with dementia is crucial. Strategies for talking to a parent with dementia on the phone can include:
- Speaking slowly and clearly
- Use simple sentences
- Be patient and reassuring
- Find the right time
- Create a calm environment
- Talk about familiar topics
- Respond with patience
- Value active listening
- Make plans for the next call
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is more than just memory loss. It involves a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life. In dementia, the brain undergoes significant changes, affecting memory, language, and problem-solving.
How to Talk to a Parent with Dementia on the Phone
Dementia can make communication challenging for a parent, as they might struggle to find words, follow conversations, or remember recent interactions. Understanding this and employing communication strategies can help adult children approach conversations with more empathy and patience.
Tips for Effective Communication
Talking to a parent with dementia on the phone requires adjustments to your usual style. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
- Speak slowly and clearly: This gives a parent more time to process what’s communicated.
- Use simple sentences: Avoid complex structures and jargon. Stick to straightforward language.
- Be patient and reassuring: Frustration can arise on both ends. Remain calm and offer reassurance when a parent with dementia struggles to understand or respond.
These tips might seem simple or obvious, but they can significantly impact the quality of your conversations. Remember, the goal is not to rush through the call but to create a meaningful connection, no matter how brief.
Prepare for the Call
Preparation is key to a successful conversation. Here are some ways to prepare for talking to a parent with dementia on the phone:
- Find the right time: Choose an appropriate time when a parent is most likely calm and alert.
- Create a calm environment: Make sure there are no distractions. A quiet space can help you and a parent focus on the conversation.
- Have a plan: Think about topics to discuss beforehand. Having a list can help guide the conversation.
By preparing in advance, you can have a more relaxed and engaging conversation, making it easier for a parent to connect with you.
Engage in the Conversation
Once the call begins, engaging a parent is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Talk about familiar topics: Discussing old memories or favorite hobbies can spark recognition and comfort.
- Respond to challenges patiently: If a parent becomes confused or agitated, gently steer the conversation back to calmer waters.
- Value active listening: Sometimes, just being a patient listener is enough. A parent might need to express themselves.
These strategies can help create a positive atmosphere, making the conversation more enjoyable for both of you.
Closing the Conversation
Ending the call on a positive note is just as important as starting it well. Here are some strategies:
- Express gratitude: Thank a parent for the conversation. Positive reinforcement can boost their mood.
- Make plans for the next call: This gives a parent something to look forward to and helps maintain a routine.
- Say goodbye gently: Use kind and comforting words to end the call, leaving a parent feeling valued and loved.
A thoughtful closing can leave a lasting impression, helping a parent feel connected after the call ends.
The Role of Technology
Technology can be a valuable ally in maintaining communication with a parent with dementia. Here are some options to consider:
- Video calls: Seeing your face can provide additional comfort and context, making the conversation easier to follow.
- Photo-sharing apps: Sharing pictures can spark memories and provide visual stimulation.
- Reminder apps: These can help remind a parent of scheduled calls to reduce anxiety and improve their readiness.
Leveraging technology can enhance quality phone interactions, providing visual and auditory aids to support communication.
Maintaining a Connection with Loved Ones
Navigating phone conversations with a parent with dementia takes some consideration and care. By understanding the effects of dementia on communication, preparing thoughtfully, and using effective strategies, adult children can maintain a meaningful connection with loved ones in senior living.
A call with a parent with dementia is an opportunity to provide support, share love, and make cherished memories, no matter how small. Maintaining regular communication on the phone can benefit adult children and a parent’s well-being and peace of mind.
For more information on how to communicate with a parent with dementia or about virtual visits in senior living, contact Somerby Franklin.
