Approximately one third of stroke survivors experience communication problems. Some may not be able to speak, and others have difficulty understanding language. However, seniors need not be without a means of communication. There are many devices available that help senior stroke survivors regain the ability to communicate.
1. Whiteboards
Whiteboards are ideal for seniors who retain the ability to write with at least one hand and who haven’t lost their language comprehension. Simple whiteboards and markers enable stroke survivors to write words or short phrases that express their needs. Whiteboards are useful for older adults with dysarthria, which is the inability to form verbal words or sounds. The boards come in different sizes, which makes them portable. By keeping the boards and writing utensils within close proximity, seniors can quickly communicate with loved ones and caregivers.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional senior care. Edmonton families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
2. Symbol Boards
Stroke survivors may retain their language skills but be unable to speak or write. Symbol boards enable them to communicate using images. The symbols might represent simple daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, and using the bathroom, or they might feature images that rate physical pain. Symbol booklets are available that represent hundreds of personal choices, activities, and needs. Seniors merely point to images to convey desires or answer questions.
3. Mobile Devices
Smartphones and tablets have keyboards and note pages that enable users to type messages. This way, seniors who might be unable to speak fluently retain the ability to express themselves in sentences. They just turn on the devices, find the appropriate apps, and use the keyboard to write desires, questions, or responses. They might also use the devices to converse with loved ones who aren’t in their presence by sending and receiving text messages.
Having a caregiver close by can give your loved one peace of mind. If your senior loved one needs hourly or live-in care, Edmonton Home Care Assistance can help. Our caregivers can assist with exercise and mobility, prepare nutritious meals, provide timely medication reminders, and help with a wide array of other important daily tasks.
4. Mobile Device Apps
There are many different mobile apps available that aid in communication. Seniors can choose apps featuring captioned images or symbols to express their desires or needs. Other apps enable users to select prerecorded voice messages to convey their wishes. Messages can also be recorded and added to a device’s storage system.
5. Voice Output Communication Aids
Voice output communication aids are self-contained, versatile tools that enable stroke survivors to communicate more effectively. Some contain symbol sets or allow users to communicate with personal photographs, while others feature audio and video recordings. The programs contain computer-generated voices that speak for stroke survivors. A keyboard function enables seniors to type messages that are then spoken by the apps. Seniors can combine words with pictures or symbols to create numerous messages or sentences, and they only need to press buttons to initiate the applicable messages.
These devices can stimulate cognition and make communication easier for senior stroke survivors, and so can having a trained caregiver close by. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality elderly home care. Trust Home Care Assistance to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably. Call us today at (780) 490-7337 to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.