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Interacting with the Elderly. By Alexia Nester. Interacting with the Elderly. Recognize that elderly people can be intimidating Remember that they are people just like you and me Recall the do’s and don’ts of communicating with them. Recognizing they can be intimidating.
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Interacting with the Elderly By Alexia Nester
Interacting with the Elderly • Recognize that elderly people can be intimidating • Remember that they are people just like you and me • Recall the do’s and don’ts of communicating with them
Recognizing they can be intimidating • They can be confusing • They might have Alzheimer’s/Dementia • It can be difficult to understand them • They may forget the topic of conversation • They might be wandering around
Recognizing they can be intimidating • They can look scary • They might be in wheelchair • There might be other medical devices • They could be messy eaters • They may not smile or look friendly • They are often sleeping
Recognizing they can be intimidating • They may have different social standards • They might have different sense of humor • They may think they have “higher” moral standards • They have old fashioned ways of speaking
Remembering they are people • They were all young at one time • Look at old pictures • Think of what you will be like at their age • Ask lots of questions about their life
Remembering they are people • They have the same emotions as we do • They have the same personality as they used to • Factors like family visits affect their moods • They might be sad, scared, lonely, or bored
Remembering they are people • Put yourself in their situation • Think of what school was like • Imagine what it would be like to live there • Try to be optimistic and creative
Recalling the do’s and don’ts • Don’ts: • Don’t be afraid of them • Don’t talk to them like children • Don’t yell if you don’t know that they can’t hear you • Don’t assume anything about them
Recalling the do’s and don’ts • Do’s • Do joke and make mood light • Do let them do things for themselves • Do ask lots of questions • Do prepare to repeat yourself • Do talk clearly
Elderly people have much to teach us. Use these techniques to maximize comfort in a situation that can be intimidating to many people. These are great skills that will add richness and enhance relationships with the aged.