Interacting with People using Communication Aids

A Caregiver's Guide to Communication

By Colleen Witt

· Relax. Don’t be embarrassed if you are having trouble understanding the individual or their communication device. Individuals who use alternative methods of communication usually have a long history of practicing patience and understanding with people who have an inexperienced ear for communication devices and/or lack the experience communicating with an individual using a communication board or book. Go into the interaction determined to learn and try not to be intimated by the technology that allows the individual to communicate with you independently and privately (if necessary).

· Don’t be afraid to ask questions about a person’s communication method. Learn about the system, this will allow you to be a more respectful and sensitive communication partner.

· Speak directly to the person using the communication aid, not to accompanying persons. This is critical to communicating respect for the individual. While they may not have good oral speech skills, do not make the assumption that they are not every bit a bright as you are. Their ability to advocate for themselves, think for themselves and receive information responsibly may not be at all impaired.

· When introduced to a person with a disability it is appropriate to offer to shake hands. People with physical disabilities can usually still receive a handshake.

· If you offer assistance WAIT until the offer is accepted before going ahead.

· Do not move or maneuver a person’s wheelchair without their permission.

· LISTEN attentively when talking with a person who has communication impairment. A poor listener adds unnecessary frustration to the effort of communication.

· It may be helpful to ask short questions that require short answers. Questions that require a yes/no response are usually easy for the individual to respond to. However, you need not limit the conversation to yes/no questions exclusively.

· Consider the effort that goes into using a communication book, device or board. While technology has offered individuals many more opportunities to speak for themselves these systems all require time, patience and skill to use. Give the augmented communicator ample time to respond. Do not go on with the conversation while they are still formulating their answer. BE PATIENT and allow plenty of time for each response.

· Do not pretend to understand. Be sure to repeat what you have understood and allow the person to confirm that it is what they meant.

· Do not lean on a person’s wheel chair, wheel chairs can become an extension of one’s body. They should be treated with respect.

· Do not look over a person’s shoulder at their device as they formulate a question, comment or response. This is considered to be very rude and at the very least an invasion of privacy and personal space.

· Treat adults like adults. Do not pat people with disabilities.

· Avoid yelling. Unless you are told that the individual has a hearing impairment there is no need to raise your voice.

· Position yourself in a way that allows you to maintain eye contact with the person you are speaking to.

· Try to speak to the individual with the communication aid just as you would wish to be spoken to.

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Interacting with People using Communication Aids

A Caregiver's Guide to Communication

By Colleen Witt

Ó Speaking Differently, 2005