Speech, Communication and Aging

The AgingCare.com forum is filled with people coming together to share valuable information. We’ve compiled experienced caregivers’ best tips and suggestions for facilitating communication with a loved one who has PD.

Like many other dementia patients, my mother repeatedly asks a handful of complex and emotionally charged questions. This is how I try to set her mind at ease.

Some seniors may lose the ability to communicate following a stroke or due to the progression of a neurological disease. Fortunately, a variety of tools and techniques are available to facilitate communication with a loved one who has a speech disorder.

Caregiver Blog: Sometimes I get so frustrated when trying to talk with my husband with dementia that I end up ignoring him and reading a book. I don't want to hurt him, but there comes a point when I just can't take it anymore.

Most caregivers who use elderspeak do so with the goal of enhancing interactions with their elders, not degrading them. However, “endearing” pet names and juvenile turns of phrase can erode a senior’s self-esteem and breed resentment.

The mental changes that accompany Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia can dramatically alter a person's capacity for communication. Here are ten tips to for talking with a loved one who has Alzheimer's disease.

When talking to aging parents about assisted living, acknowledge why they might want to remain at home and reassure them that the decision is theirs to make.

Dementia expert Teepa Snow examines three common communication breakdowns between dementia patients and caregivers and offers techniques for minimizing conflict and improving trust and understanding.

It is frightening to watch an aging loved one lose their ability to talk, respond or communicate in any manner, but the powers of touch and hearing can help family caregivers continue to connect with seniors who have aphasia.

A dementia patient’s perspective on shadowing, repeating questions and dealing with other troubling behaviors associated with Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Actress Connie Shulman discusses the life-altering impact of learning that her friend had frontotemporal dementia, and the importance of bringing awareness and support to families dealing with a dementia diagnosis.

Most seniors and their adult children avoid talking about aging and long-term care planning, but sidestepping the issue can be risky. Use these 10 tips to get the conversation started and ensure your family is prepared for whatever may lie ahead.

When a beloved friend or family member has been diagnosed with cancer, finding the right words to say can seem impossible. Caregivers and survivors share their insights.

Even well-intentioned comments and questions can be hurtful when they come from someone who doesn’t understand what family caregivers are going through.

It’s shocking for a caregiver to hear a loved one state they would rather be dead. When an elder speaks about wanting to die, it may be a sign of depression, or it could indicate that they just want to talk about the physical and emotional toll of aging.

One sign of the aging brain is repeating stories and questions more often. While there is no quick fix, a change in attitude and some proven strategies can help you keep your cool and preserve your loved one’s dignity.

Differing opinions exist as to whether people are aware of people and their surroundings during the last stages of Alzheimer's disease. As abilities and communication decline, loved ones are left to wonder if their care efforts are worthwhile.

Age-related hearing loss makes it difficult and often frustrating for seniors to communicate effectively with others. Use these tips and techniques to facilitate conversations with an elder who is hard of hearing.

Physical therapy, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy: Learn the different types of geriatric rehabilitation services available, where they occur, and what exercises are used to help improve a senior's functional abilities.

There are three main types of rehabilitative therapy for elderly people: physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.