YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MY MAMA

SUPPORT TEAM COMMUNICATION for Dementia

CHECKLIST FOR POSITIVE, PRODUCTIVE COMMUNICATION

 This section is critical for quality of life for your family member or friend...

  • COMMUNICATING WITH DOCTORS, PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS, AND NURSE PRACTITIONERS  effectively is a two way street.

    Designate one family member to be the medical contact. This should be the health care power of attorney with a standby. If you don't have  a health care POA, make this happen NOW!

    • Carry health insurance cards, medication list, and a copy of health care POA with you at all times. A folder in your car will work.
    • List questions and concerns before conversing. Check your list before ending conversation.
    • If you don't understand what is being discussed, ask for clarification. Make sure you understand before leaving.
    • Do not engage in hallway conversations with medical personnel about specific medical conditions unless they invite you to do so. It is not fair to them or to other patients. I have been guilty of this. I stand corrected.
    • Ask to be notified of any medication changes and reasons for the changes.
    • Understand that both you and the doctor are human and make mistakes. Correct them, apologize, and move on. This applies to both parties!
    • Remember you may be the only lifeline and advocate. Stand up for their rights.
    • Discuss the living will and Do Not Resuscitate form.  Get all the information from the health care professionals so you can help your loved one make the right decisions- do it NOW!
  • COMMUNICATION IN A FACILITY (assisted living, memory care, skilled care)
    • Learn the names of the staff- administrators, social workers, nurses, CNA's and housekeeping. All are important.
    • Respect the knowledge of the staff. They have years of experience. Ask for their ideas and suggestions.
    • Go to the care plan meetings. Be prompt. Have your questions and concerns listed. Discuss medications, diet, toilet, sleep, hygiene (including oral hygiene), activities, and overall emotional health.
    • If you have a concern about quality of care, find out the appropriate person with whom to hold your discussion.

                     EDUCATE YOURSELF: Information on Dementia.

SHOW APPRECIATION TO ALL HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS WHO SERVE THE ONE YOU LOVE.  

          

 

 

 

 

Pages

  • SAFETY FIRST for Dementia
  • CREATING COMFORT for our friends with dementia
  • SUPPORT TEAM COMMUNICATION for Dementia
  • FUN ACTIVITIES for Dementia
  • Dementia and FACING EMOTIONS
  • RESOURCES for Dementia
  • About me

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