What is Elderspeak?
Have you ever heard of baby talk? When you use a smaller and weaker voice to coo at a baby? Well, elderspeak is similar. You may shorten your words, soften your voice, and talk to a senior like they are a child. You may not even realize you’re doing this as a family caregiver. If you find yourself doing this, it’s time to realize and stop because there are negative consequences to using this type of speech. If you feel like you’re getting overwhelmed and need a break to refocus your energy, it’s time to hire home care assistance to help your family out. These professionals may also help you recognize when you are using elderspeak and help you stop. Here are some of the negative consequences of elderspeak.
There are Negative Effects to Elderspeak for Seniors
The worst consequence of elderspeak is that it can impact how your loved one views themselves and how they feel about aging. You may not know you’re speaking this way, but it can make your loved one feel bad about things.
- They may build resentment towards you.
- They may feel depressed when you speak this way.
- They may feel like a child and a burden.
- They may experience lower self-esteem.
- They may feel embarrassed.
When you start speaking to them like they are a child, it can be condescending and harm them in multiple ways. If you need help caring for your elderly loved one, it’s time to look into home care assistance. These professionals can ensure your loved one is taken care of without causing embarrassment. They are the ultimate way to ensure they remain independent and rely less on their family. This can help you keep the child and parent relationship.
Focus on How You Speak
One of the best things you can do is focus on how you speak to your loved one. You can help without baby-talking them. When they need help, don’t ever judge them or think less of them. Everyone needs help during some points in their life, but your senior may need more help than others. Here are some tips to keep in mind on how to speak,
- Think before you speak.
- Speak with respect.
- Simplify your speech without changing tone.
- Speak normally, but shorten your sentences.
- Repeat key points.
If you aren’t sure if your senior has heard you, turn off the TV or any distractions. If you think they forgot, repeat things often. However, you should never start talking to them like a child. The best thing you can do is slow down and take time with your responses.
Ensure Home Care Assistance Speaks Respectfully
When you hire home care assistance, you should take your time hiring the right person. They should have experience handling a senior routine, and they should always speak with respect. A professional will never babytalk or use elderspeak when talking to your loved one, and if they do, it is a warning sign. They are professionals who will form a relationship and rapport with your loved one, and this professional will help your loved one age in place and remain independent.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Assistance in Osakis, MN, please contact the caring staff at Alternative Senior Care today.
Providing Home Care in Central Minnesota and Surrounding Communities. Call us Today (320) 352-3350
Lainie recalled her favorite subject in school was Home Economics,
“I always loved cooking, cleaning, organizing the home, and caregiving; all the things we do best at Alternative Senior Care!”
"I’ve learned a lot from my experiences for the past 30 years, caregiving for seniors, children and family members. Being a part of Alternative Senior Care is a privilege for me because I feel every day is an opportunity to find ways to bless others, especially in my own community. Overseeing our day-to-day operations at Alternative Senior Care, allows me to make sure our values and mission statement is implemented in all that we do to make each client feel safe, comfortable, and cared for in their own home. “