Part 1 - THE DO LIST
* Keep your tone and body language friendly and positive.
* Don’t speak too loudly.
* Make eye contact and stay at their eye level.
* Introduce yourself even if you’re sure they must know you. “Hi Grandma, I’m Joe, your grandson.”
* Speak slowly and in short sentences with only one idea per sentence. For example: “Hi Mary. I’m Jane, your friend.” or “What a beautiful day. The sunshine is nice, isn’t it?” or “Tell me about your daughter.”
* Give them extra time to speak or answer questions, don’t rush the conversation.
* Use open-ended questions so there will be no right or wrong answers.
* Be ok with sitting together in silence. They may enjoy that just as much as talking.
* Follow their lead, don’t force conversation topics or activities.
* Validate their feelings. Allow them to express sadness, fear, or anger.
* Enter their reality. Go with the flow of the conversation even if they talk about things that aren’t true or don’t make sense.
* Share and discuss memories of the past. They’re more likely to remember things from long ago.
* Come prepared with an activity, like something to read out loud, a photo album to look at, or some of their favorite music to listen to.
* Give hugs, gentle touches, or massage arms or shoulders if the person gives permission and enjoys it.
Check back tomorrow for the "Don't" list
Original article at DailyCaring .com