Communication tips
Treat people as individuals. Every person who has had a Stroke is different.
- Slow down and talk in short, clear sentences.
- Ask direct questions that can be answered with “yes” or “no” For example “would you like a cup of tea?”
- Give the person plenty of time to answer.
- Use words like who, what, where, and when. Eg “ Your brush is where?”
- Don’t shout at the person – they’re not deaf!
- When starting to speak, give the person time to tune in.
– Touch the person and pause.
– Say their name first. - Use a Verbal lead in.
– For example “Oh by the way, I meant to ask you…”
– Or, “What do you think about…” - Place the key word at the end of a sentence.
– “What do you want for dinner?”
– “It’s time for your bath.”
– “You have a visitor – it’s Tony.”
– “Shall we get in the car?” - Never assume that the person is not trying.
- Never talk about the person as if they are not there.
- Always ensure that the person is comfortable.
- Remember, people affected by Stroke sometimes can’t feel one side of their body, or may have some vision impairment.
- Try to ignore outbursts of weeping, anger, laughing or swearing – some people can’t control this.