When a loved one struggles to find the right word, a calm conversation can shift to anxious in seconds. For seniors in Oakland, CA, a vibrant city just across the bay from San Francisco, one of the most common frustrations is word-finding difficulty.
This doesn't mean they don't know the word; it just means it's harder for them to get it out right then and there.
At first, the experience may seem insignificant. They may not even notice a forgotten name or stumble over their words while speaking. After a while, it can become bigger challenges, making senior communication tips more important than ever.
In this helpful guide about cognitive health in seniors, we'll explain how you can support a loved one with language skills in aging.
To understand word-finding difficulty, you need to recognize the signs.
At first, a person might pause while speaking. They may even say something like, "What's the word?" and gesture or point to something in the room.
They might use other words to describe what they're struggling to recall. Seniors may even stop talking altogether because of the embarrassment and frustration they feel.
This is not the same as forgetting entire stories, activities, and events. With word finding difficult, a person is still knowledgeable about a specific event. They just can't remember the correct word.
Although everyone experiences this on occasion, it is more common among seniors. Regardless, it's essential to evaluate seniors whenever you notice a change in their cognitive health.
There are several reasons why this may occur, including the natural progression of aging.
As people age, their brains process information more slowly. Nerves don't send the appropriate signals as fast as they once did. Illnesses can also play a role in word finding.
Some contributors include:
Side effects from medication can sometimes make it more challenging to recall words. To make things harder for seniors, feeling stressed or fatigued can amplify word-finding difficulty.
Although word-finding difficulty doesn't have to be a serious issue, it's worth discussing with a doctor. This is especially true if it occurs suddenly or persists. When doctors catch it early, they can rule out any underlying medical issues, giving you and your family peace of mind.
Being unable to find words presents a challenge for multiple reasons. For starters, it's not just an issue with a person's speech; it also affects their confidence and desire to participate in conversations. Seniors are already prone tofeelings of loneliness and isolation, so when they struggle to communicate, it can make matters worse.
Seniors might feel embarrassed or worry that others are judging them. Some may withdraw from conversations altogether. Others may feel irritated and frustrated, which can strain interpersonal relationships.
Families may become stressed, too. It's never easy to watch a loved one struggle with speaking.
You may become impatient or try to finish sentences for them. This can actually be discouraging and make a person feel more self-conscious. That's why it's important to know how to respond to an older adult with word-finding difficulties -- it can make things easier for everyone.
There are numerous ways to assist seniors with smoother conversations. Even a few small changes can make a huge impact.
First, always be patient. If it's stressful for you to watch a loved one struggle with word finding, think of how difficult it is for them. Although silence during a conversation can feel uncomfortable, rushing them only increases their overall stress.
Next, be gentle when helping seniors to recall words. Offer them gentle prompts. Don't finish their sentences; instead, try cues to help them find the words.
This might be:
It's always a great idea to encourage seniors to use gestures. This might be any of the following:
This may help seniors convey their message, even if they can't recall the exact word.
You may also want to ask yes/no questions. It's easier for a person to answer with one simple word than to try to recall the exact word.
If possible, minimize background noise. When you're in a quiet room, it can be easier to focus on speech.
Although these changes are small, they work to create an environment that makes seniors feel comfortable instead of pressured.
Although you can use speech therapy as a professional route for helping seniors to recall words, there are daily habits you can implement. This includes:
This works to keep language skills active. Even simple games are a huge help. Some naming games include:
This all encourages seniors to practice word recognition without feeling overwhelmed, fitting into emotional wellness activities.
Remember that conversations are also practice. When families make regular time for conversations, it helps strengthen them. Through building confidence, you're also helping seniors to exercise their brains.
Phones and tablets can help seniors with word-finding issues, including those who need extra support with Alzheimer's communication. Picture-based materials can assist them in communicating by pointing. They may even benefit from video calls with subtitles.
A healthy lifestyle can support seniors with word-finding challenges, including those related to dementia and speech. Be sure to:
Exercise is also important because it improves blood flow to the brain.
Although word-finding difficulty can be common, a doctor still needs to evaluate individuals to ensure there's nothing more serious going on. Regardless, work with seniors to encourage conversion.
Be patient and practice daily. When you listen with compassion, you create a space for seniors to feel respected and comfortable speaking despite word-finding difficulties.
At The Point at Rockridge, we prioritize social gatherings, ensuring seniors have ample opportunities to practice communication skills. They'll love activities such as craft collages, Sweet Bingo, Tea and Coffee Socials, and more. If you're ready to take advantage of our Vibrant® Life program, contact us today and ask to schedule a tour of our beautiful community!