Kris-Leigh to Offers Tips for Effective Communication with Seniors

Kris-Leigh Assisted Living understands that in communication, there may be limitations that get in the way. There are ways to increase effective communication with an elder loved one. Communication can be very simple. Someone says something, and another person interprets and understands what they meant. Of course, not all communication goes so smoothly. End Quote

Baltimore, MD (1888PressRelease) November 22, 2011 - Severna Park, MD - Kris-Leigh Assisted Living understands that in communication, there may be limitations that get in the way. There are ways to increase effective communication with an elder loved one.

Communication can be very simple. Someone says something, and another person interprets and understands what they meant. Of course, not all communication goes so smoothly.

For seniors, there may be numerous obstacles to overcome. Some of these obstacles may include: hearing or sight problems, chronic pain, symptoms of illnesses and side effects from medications can dull a senior's senses, along with their ability to comprehend. In these situations, communicating effectively can be more difficult for everyone involved. In addition, generational differences can create a language barrier. Things such as slang references from pop culture and technical jargon can be very confusing for an elder person to understand.

In all cases, conversing will demand more concentration and energy. If either of these are in short supply, communication will suffer even more, and the ability to communicate effectively will be lost. This can lead to frustration and the natural tendency to avoid communication, and opportunities for bonding will be lost.

Here are some helpful tips from Kris-Leigh Assisted Living, for enhancing the flow of communication with seniors. Seek the medical and dental help that can improve their hearing, sight and speech. Ask questions that generate involvement and check for a level of understanding. Have the patience to wait for answers. Make it easier for everyone to stay attentive by limiting noise and distractions. Make sure the temperature, lighting and seating are as comfortable as possible. Speak at a pace and volume that works for the senior. Use visual cues and physical touch to help convey your message. Save important conversations for the time of day when their energy and concentration levels are the highest.

Sometimes seniors are not ready or willing to have open communication. Here are some hints for getting past their barriers and stimulating conversation. Ask for their advice, and don't give yours. Ask specific questions, yet don't interrogate. Routine questions, such as "How are you doing?", usually lead to automatic answers. Be a good listener and maintain eye contact. Listen for what they are not saying. This is especially important when dealing with the effects of illnesses and disabilities. Offer newspaper articles that will stimulate conversation or be seen as an authoritative point of view, for topics that are difficult for them to talk about.

Kris-Leigh Assisted Living is licensed to provide I, II and III Level of Care. It offers their residents a host of services in addition to assisted living, such as: hospice care, on-site rehabilitation services, short term/stay care, and memory impaired care programs. Kris-Leigh Assisted Living provides residents with dignity, understanding, security, and the highest quality of care. They strive to delight residents while giving peace of mind to their family members, when they need it most. For more information, and to preview our award-winning waterfront community in Severna Park, or our country cottage-like communities in Gambrills and Davidsonville visit www.kris-leigh.com or call to schedule a tour today: (410) 975-9919. For more information visit www.kris-leigh.com.

Media Contact: Caroline Jellison
Phone: 410.975.9919
Email: carolinejellison ( @ ) aol dot com

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