If your friend, neighbour, colleague or loved one is having a difficult time communicating, it is important for you to understand some strategies that can help:

• Be patient. Listen to the person, take time to understand and make sure they understand you and avoid interrupting them.
• Be supportive and treat the individual with dignity, respect and courtesy.
• Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know,” or “Let me check.” You can be clear about the limits of your ability to respond to a person’s needs or requests.
• Reduce distractions – other conversations, TV, radio,  environmental noise, etc. and communication will be smoother.
• Be prepared to repeat what you say, orally or in writing. Some people might have difficulties with understanding or short-term memory deficits.  Speak slowly, simply and clearly. Pause between sentences.
• Stay on one subject at a time. Avoid jumping from one topic to another.
• Allow time for responses. Don’t rush.
• Be sure they can see your face.  Be sure they are sitting/lying/standing in a comfortable posture.
• Be supportive and treat the individual with dignity, respect and courtesy.
• When introduced, it is appropriate to offer to shake hands. People with limited right hand use can shake hands with their left hand.
• Offer assistance but do not insist or be offended if your offer is not accepted. If offer is accepted, ask for instructions.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you’re unsure of what to do.
• Treat adults as adults. Address people by their first names only when extending the same familiarity to all others.
• Don’t be embarrassed if you happen to use common expressions such as “See you later,” or “Did you hear about that?” that seem to relate to a person’s disability.

Support, patience and understanding go a long way. Be generous with these.