A Caregiver’s Guide to Connecting with Clients

Being a caregiver is incredibly fulfilling!  But it can be challenging, especially when your client has communication issues. When people get older, sometimes they can’t hear well, or they are unable to read notes or see your facial expressions to form a response.  If the person has dementia or Alzheimer’s, their memory is likely affected.  Your client might have side effects from medication or be struggling with social anxiety.  Technology can be a barrier, too!  In this article, we’ll review some practical tips to form a deeper connection with the people in your care despite the things he or she is dealing with.

Empathy is Key: Put yourself in their shoes.  Imagine wanting to express yourself, but being unable to form the words.  How frustrating would that be?  Approach every interaction with patience and compassion.  Be patient and supportive.

Active Listening: The person in your care deserves your full attention!  When he or she is speaking, maintain eye contact. Nodding and smiling show the person that you’re interested in what they are saying.

Learn Their Communication Style: Communication is not a one-size-fits-all!  What works for one client, may not work for another.  Take the time to observe and understand how the individual communicates, whether it’s through gestures, facial expressions, visual aids, or specific sounds. Change your approach to accommodate them.

Use Visual Aids: Visual aids can be powerful tools for communication. Utilize pictures, charts, or written notes to convey information. This is particularly effective for individuals who may struggle with verbal communication.

Establish a Routine: If you are consistent with your schedule and both you and your client know what to expect and when to expect it, structure and predictability can be established.  This leads to anticipation and understanding, making communication easier for both of you.

Encourage Expression: Create an environment where your care recipient feels comfortable telling you their needs. Encourage them to share their thoughts, preferences, and feelings, and then be patient when they communicate them to you.  Feeling constricted or misunderstood can lead to anxiety and depression.  Try to avoid shutdowns and shutouts due to stress or fear.

Be Mindful of Your Tone and Pace: Use a calm and reassuring tone, and speak more slowly if they’re not understanding you.  Break down tasks and complicated instructions into smaller manageable segments. A relaxed and simple atmosphere promotes better communication.

Seek Professional Guidance: If the struggles become insurmountable, consider seeking guidance from speech therapists, occupational therapists, or other healthcare professionals. These qualified and experienced people exist for a reason: to help.

Improving communication with the people in your care requires dedication, patience, and a willingness to adjust. By utilizing these tips in your caregiving routine, you can provide better care to those who need it.  At AdvanceCare, our caregivers are invested in forming connections with the clients in their care.  Compassion is a priority, and we show it through each interaction.  Call or email AdvanceCare to join our caregiving team.  We touch lives, and you can, too!