Finding New Ways to Communicate

At Right at Home Salisbury & Andover, we believe that communication is at the heart of exceptional care. Every person deserves the opportunity to express their wishes, preferences, feelings, and needs, regardless of the challenges they may face.

For people living with dementia, communication can become increasingly difficult over time. As verbal communication changes, it can sometimes lead to frustration, misunderstandings, and a loss of confidence for both the individual and those supporting them.

Recently, one of our Clients reminded us just how powerful a simple, person centred solution can be.

A joined Right at Home Salisbury & Andover following a referral from her husband, who was finding it increasingly difficult to support her with her morning routine.

Living with dementia, A had become largely non verbal and communicated primarily through gestures, facial expressions, and physical cues. Whilst she was still able to express herself, communicating her wishes and needs was becoming increasingly challenging.

This often resulted in frustration for A, who knew what she wanted to communicate but struggled to make herself understood. Naturally, this could also be difficult for her husband and the care team supporting her with personal care each morning.

Something as simple as understanding whether A was uncomfortable, feeling happy, in pain, or wanted a particular drink could sometimes become a source of anxiety and frustration for everyone involved.

As a care provider, we recognised that improving communication would be key to improving A's overall wellbeing and quality of life.

At Right at Home Salisbury & Andover, we always strive to look beyond immediate care needs and consider what might help a person live more independently and comfortably.

Rather than focusing solely on supporting A with her personal care, the team began exploring ways to help her communicate more effectively.

We developed a personalised set of communication cards tailored specifically to her needs and preferences.

The cards included visual prompts relating to everyday choices, emotions, and important outcomes. They allowed A to indicate how she was feeling, whether she was happy, sad, angry, or experiencing pain. They also included some of the small but important details that make a person unique, including her favourite drink: a hot chocolate.

Whilst simple in design, the cards represented something much more significant. They provided A with an alternative way of expressing herself and gave those around her greater confidence in understanding her needs.

The introduction of the communication cards quickly began to make a positive difference.

A was able to communicate more effectively with both her husband and her care team. Everyday interactions became easier, reducing frustration and helping her feel more understood.

Importantly, the cards enabled A to play a more active role in decisions about her own care and daily routine. Rather than others having to guess how she was feeling or what she wanted, she was able to communicate those preferences herself.

For someone receiving support with personal care, maintaining dignity and choice is incredibly important. The ability to express emotions, preferences, and needs helps ensure that care remains truly person centred and focused on the individual.

By finding a way to preserve A's voice, even when words were difficult, we were able to support not only her physical wellbeing but also her confidence and sense of independence.