Concept

Concept definition

Variation

Assessing and caring for needs from emotional expressions associated with the aggravation of dementia

Understanding and responding to the feelings behind emotional expressions, such as a person’s personality, expressions, words, and actions, associated with the extent of aggravation of dementia.

When a person says that they want to die or uses violent language, I wonder whether they are in a state of intense fear from not knowing what to do about their fading identity. When I spend a bit more time in providing care or go somewhere quiet with the person to talk one-on-one, I consider how I can respond to that particular situation, such as by encouraging them to take a nap to give their mind a rest from the confusion that will not abate from talking. (10)

Means of communicating with people who have difficulty with verbal communication

Using a variety of communication methods, including patiently waiting for responses, touching, and making eye contact with people who have difficulty communicating verbally.

I leave greetings until last. Once, I approached a person, placed my hand on their knee and waited until our eyes met to say, “Good morning, Mrs. XX.” When I looked down at my hand, it took that person a little while to reply with, “Good morning.” People with dementia never reply immediately. One must wait a bit. When I looked at my hand, I thought, “Sorry, I looked at my hand without waiting for you, Mrs. XX.” I felt it was unforgivable to do that when Mrs. XX was trying her best to answer me. (10)