What communication techniques work best?
A number of specific communication techniques have been shown to be effective in reducing problematic behaviors and improving day-to-day functioning of people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias: • Reality therapy: Interact with the afflicted person within his or her own frame of reference for the world, even if it has little to do with reality. • Validation therapy: Don’t correct or contradict the person’s view of reality; rather, encourage and validate it by really listening and asking questions. • Redirection: Be creative in redirecting conversation without contradicting or denying the person’s statements. Use any opportunity possible to try to elicit fond memories or remind the person of tasks or appointments. • Memory cueing: Use words and visuals to cue old or recent memories. For example, play videotapes of family events; place reminder notes in plain view; color code or number things in the order they should be done. How do I deal with aggressive behavior? In later stages of A
