Question

If a resident with AD has lost most of his verbal skills, what should the NA do?

1) Use non-verbal communication techniques
2) Encourage the resident to speak more
3) Ignore the resident's communication difficulties
4) Seek medical intervention

Answer 1

The Nursing Assistant should use non-verbal communication techniques when a resident with Alzheimer's Disease loses most verbal skills, adapting to the individual's needs with gestures and visual aids.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a resident with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) has lost most of his verbal skills, the Nursing Assistant (NA) should use non-verbal communication techniques. Ignoring the resident's communication difficulties or encouraging them to speak more can be counterproductive and may lead to frustration for both the resident and the caregiver. Medical intervention is already in place, as the resident is on medication to improve communication between brain cells. Therefore, the NA should focus on using body language, gestures, and visual aids to communicate effectively.

Strong communication skills are crucial in caring for individuals with AD, and it may entail adapting to their changing abilities. Techniques such as maintaining eye contact, offering comforting touches, and using simple and clear visual cues can be more supportive and understandable for the resident.