How to Communicate with Senior Loved Ones

Effective communication is the cornerstone of building lasting and loving connections between people. When it comes to loved ones, this should be easy. Unfortunately, as many of those we care the most about in our lives begin to age, communication can become frustrating or even impossible because of stubbornness, illness, or conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Fortunately, for those who care for senior loved ones, there are strategies you can utilize to break down some of these barriers.

Make Them Part of Decision-Making

For some aging seniors, frustration can stem from losing their independence. Tasks that were once easy become difficult and suddenly being told what to do can be difficult to take. Whenever possible, invite them into the conversation by asking them how they may like to move forward. Whether it is decisions about finances or something as simple as meal planning, allowing them to be a part of determining the solutions can help them regain some confidence.

Ask Thought-Provoking Questions

As people age, the way in which they are spoken to may need to change as well. This is particularly true for seniors who are now in the care of the same children they once cared for. Tough conversations may need to be had, but asking questions or involving others in the conversation can eliminate some of the tension.

Listen with Intention

When you find yourself involved in a conversation with a senior, and they seem to bring up something completely unrelated, your first instinct may be to regain control of the conversation and shut down their thoughts. However, that could have the unintended consequences of your loved one ignoring you or letting everything go in one ear and out the other. Sometimes, those detours can lead to engaging and meaningful conversations. Take the scenic route in the conversation. Let them decide which direction it should go and engage with them.

Avoid Arguments

This may not be easy, but arguments will turn your loved one away from you if they feel like they aren’t being heard, aren’t part of the decisions, and are left to feel as though they are wrong. This can be particularly true for those who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s. While communication can be difficult from time to time, arguments can lead to confusion and even a false sense of reality. Practice patience and understand that the disagreement may be the result of different realities, yours and theirs.

These are just a few of the ways that you can better communicate with your aging loved one. While your communication may never be perfect, your ability to listen, be patient, ask questions, and understand their reality can continue to build a deeper connection. You want what is best for them, and with the right communication, they’ll see that, too.

With clients throughout the Marquette area, including Negaunee, Ishpeming, Harvey, Skandia, and Gwinn, we can provide you with the tools and strategies to care for your loved one. Call us today at 906-361-8022 and find out how we can help.