We have recently introduced Communication and Menu Flash Cards for residents, who may have difficulty in conveying their thoughts because of speech problems associated with neurological conditions, such as dementia, strokes, or other diseases that may inhibit language abilities. Linguistic deterioration can occur with the advancement of dementia in the latter stages of life and therefore can increase levels of frustration and anger.
COMMUNICATION CARDS
The Communication Cards may effectively enable a resident, to express their feelings,
select an activity of their choice, choose a social room where they would like to go, or request to go to bed. The cards are also a means of expressing emotions and have also been used to assist with the diagnosis of health conditions, which a resident may be experiencing e.g. an upset stomach, earache, etc.
We have also produced a set of Dutch Communication Cards, as we have found that with English as a second language, this can sometimes be difficult, and it is easier to express thoughts using the first language. We can translate the communication cards in any language required, and we have found that the images printed
on the cards are universal and assist with translations.
MENU CARDS
These were introduced by Sue, our Care Manager, who found from many years of experience within the care industry, that menu cards were incredibly useful as they can assist with selecting food with a visual prompt. For those who have neurological conditions, it can be difficult to recall what a particular food may look like, With the advancement of certain conditions, the appetite can also reduce and a visual prompt with Menu Cards can at times encourage the resident to increase their appetite.
We have divided the Menu Cards into five categories.
Breakfast
Main Meals
Side Dishes
Tea Time Meals
Desserts
Each category is colour-coded to make it easier for busy staff to select the correct category from the hooked Menu Card display board. The cards are laminated and bound by a metal keyring clasp, which makes it easy to view the cards with a simple flip action.
After a trial period for both the Menu and Communication Cards, we formed the opinion that they have been a very useful addition to our care provision.
If you would like a PDF print of the Communication Cards, please email marketing.tocv@gmail.com
Comments