Communication challenges are common after a stroke. Your senior loved one may be unable to physically move the muscles in his or her mouth and jaws to speak, and he or she may also experience cognitive issues that affect speech, such as being unable to find the right words. Stroke survivors often rely on the following types of devices to continue to communicate with their loved ones.
E-Tran Frames
Stroke survivors who lack the ability to speak and move their arms easily can still communicate using E-Tran frames. An E-Tran frame is usually made of a clear sheet of plastic, and the caregiver holds it up in front of the stroke survivor. At first, only one or two symbols may be tacked to the board to keep things simple. The stroke survivor uses eye movements to select between the options. With practice, your loved one can begin to use more symbols as you and other people communicating with him or her learn how to pick up on his or her eye movements.
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 address if their families opt for professional senior home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Voice Output Communication Aids
These devices allow seniors to convert text to speech using a computerized voice. Depending on the type of device, your loved one can choose from prerecorded messages that only require one touch of a finger, or he or she can type out a message. Once done, your loved one can play it out loud. This device is great for communicating with people who are in the same room or on the phone.
Having a caregiver close by can give your loved one peace of mind. 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 at-home care. Lincoln families trust Home Care Assistance to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.
Tablets with Preloaded Speech Apps
Stroke survivors are able to benefit from new technology that helps them communicate better. Look for tablets and laptops that already have communication apps installed. Many of these apps are designed with images and words that have been carefully put together based on research that ensures seniors can easily adapt to using them.
Communication Boards
These boards are similar to E-Tran frames. However, they require your loved one to do more than just look at the options. A communication board has more possibilities to choose from, enhancing the ability to communicate. For instance, your loved one can use a communication board with the alphabet on it to spell out messages by pointing. Symbols can also be used on these boards to help seniors who are unable to fully comprehend written words. Your loved one may find it easier to point at a happy face to relay the fact that he or she is comfortable rather than trying to spell it out.
Text Messaging Apps
If your loved one is able to type or use his or her fingers to push a keypad, he or she can start using a smartphone or tablet to communicate. Try looking for electronic devices with larger keypads if your loved one has difficulty keeping his or her fingers steady. You can also help your loved one set up pretyped messages if he or she cannot put sentences together independently.
Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Lincoln, CA, live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Home Care Assistance. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (916) 226-3737.