Event Date: Jul 25, 2012 | 12:00PM - 1:00PM EDT
Presenter(s): Tracy Danylyshen-Laycock (B.S.P.E., M.S.W., R.S.W (SK)), Behavioural Consultant for Seniors' Health and Continuing Care with Saskatoon Health Region
Facilitated by: Sarah Clark & Liz Lusk
Host: Canadian Dementia Resource and Knowledge Exchange (CDRAKE) and Alzheimer Society of Canada (ASC)
Event Type: Communication, Webinar
Event Description: Communication is an essential part of who we are as human beings. This process allows us to convey messages, thoughts, or emotions to others around us. We communicate verbally, non-verbally and through written words. In order for communication to occur, the message that is transmitted must be interpreted and understood. Unfortunately, when an individual has been diagnosed with a type of dementia, the communication process is affected. This often leads to misunderstandings and frustration from both the individual with dementia and the caregiver. There are some very important strategies to keep in mind in order to effectively communicate with an individual diagnosed with dementia. Some of these strategies include: allowing ample time for the individual to process the information, recognizing the importance of remaining skills and abilities of the individual and minimizing the distractions within the environment. Most importantly, it is critical for the caregivers to realize that communication is possible throughout the entire progression of the dementia. This presentation will focus on ways to enhance communication with an individual diagnosed with dementia based on a person-centred model of care.
