The coronavirus pandemic is challenging for everyone, but it can be especially bothersome for patients and older adults with dementia, who may be used to having routines that they can no longer practice, because of new safety protocols.
BEST PATIENT CARE SERVICES, LLC understands the difficult position this crisis has put patients in, thus, as a responsible Home Care Agency in Florida, we provide primary caretakers and Home Health Aides this list of ways they may communicate better with their loved ones, to lessen their worries and fears.
- Center Yourself
Fear and anxiety are contagious. If you’re feeling particularly stressed or worrisome while caring for an older adult with dementia, take time to center yourself and calm your mind before interacting with your patient.
- Wear Protective Gear
Some Skilled Nursing providers might have second thoughts about wearing protective gear like face masks when communicating with a senior with dementia as this might agitate the patient. (Most experts agree that 70–93 percent of communication is done non-verbally, either through facial expressions or body language.) It is, however, necessary for you to wear protective gear at all times, as well as practice proper hand hygiene.
- Listen and Speak with Empathy, Always
Allow your loved one to speak to you about what they feel about the current situation. Don’t contradict them, but rather, put yourself in their shoes and answer them from a perspective they will be able to understand.
For more information on COVID-19, visit the CDC’s site, here.
You may also contact us for more details about safe and reliable Home Care Services in West Palm Beach, Florida.
