Free Educational Seminar!

Presented by Tam Cummings, MS, Gerontologist

“Understanding Alzheimer’s & Dementia”

Wednesday, June 22, 2011, 1:00-5:00pm

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 8134 Mesa Drive, Austin

RSVP to Rhone McCall at BrightStar Care

 

Communication Tips

Verbal

• Introduce yourself
• Validate: Empathize  and be compassionate
• Be respectful and polite
• Listen and look for non-verbal messages
• Be patient and kind when they repeat
• Use simple words and short sentences
• Repeat slower or rephrase
• Avoid “Remember”
• Avoid slang
• Avoid open-ended questions
• Limit choices for easier decisions
• Be genuine, positive, supportive

Non-Verbal

• Smile
• Be at eye level and look at them
• Touch them, hold their hand, give hugs
• Eliminate distracting background noise
• Check hearing aids

Brain Fitness Tips

1.     Diet rich in

• Antioxidants: Berries
• Omega-3 Fats: Nuts, Salmon
• Folate: Broccoli, Spinach
• Caffeine: Green Tea, Coffee

2. Mental Stimulation

• Crossword and Sudoku Puzzles

3. Physical Exercise

• Improves blood flow to brain

4. Sleep

• 8 hours a night