Section 4
We have learned that communication with a person with dementia demands time, skill and creativity. It is essential that organisations place value on staff developing skills to allow them to create an atmosphere that enhances and supports communication. This requires a commitment to allocate time and resources to support staff in learning and developing skills in person-centred communication with persons with dementia. Below are four recommendations or guidance in the area of communication skills. This is followed by a resources section which goes into more detail on these areas and signposts the reader to additional related resources.
GUIDANCE – COMMUNICATION SKILLS
1. Communicating with a person with dementia requires time, skill, creativity and an openness to trying out new approaches. Service providers and staff need to factor in additional time and resources when organising and managing services in order to facilitate good communication with the person with dementia. 2. It is strongly recommended that all staff develop skills in: - person-centred communication with a person with dementia - using a range of communication tools to facilitate effective communication - responding to and facilitating end-of-life care discussions with people with dementia. 3. When talking to the person with dementia it is recommended that staff use short sentences, familiar language and a calm tone of voice. They should be aware of their own nonverbal communication. 4. The use of active listening techniques can facilitate discussions and conversations with the person with dementia.
12
Facilitating discussions on future and end-of-life care with a person with dementia
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker