There are six sight loss guides in the top tips series. This is the fifth guide of six.
The advice given here will help you feel confident about talking to a person with dementia and sight loss:
- Gain an understanding of the effects of the eye condition(s) and position yourself to minimise their impact
- Ensure the 3 C’s - correct, clean, and current glasses are worn
- Minimise “visual noise” by wearing block colours and minimal accessories
- Gain the person’s attention by saying their name first and/or by a gentle touch on the arm
- Introduce yourself and what you do
- Tell the person when you are moving away from them or leaving the room
- Speak clearly using simple, short sentences, giving only one idea, question or instruction at a time
- Follow the OWL principle - Observe, Wait and Listen for responses
- Ask if guidance or support is required and provide in a consistent manner
- Provide information in an alternative/accessible way such as audio, large print or braille.
Download the Ten tips to help you communicate with a person with dementia and sight loss as an accessible PDF.