Communication is BOTH verbal and non-verbal. Both means of communication are important, but non-verbal communication becomes an even more valuable tool when dealing with memory issues.

Watching other people and their body language helps us to understand a conversation better, as so much of our language can have different meanings depending on how it is stated.

Here's a look at the detailed differences between verbal and non-verbal communication. Download and print a copy of the activity sheet. Take a few moments to review the information.

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For reflection....

After you've read the activity sheet, take a few minutes to reflect on the following questions.  Feel free to make some notes.

• What stood out to you as you read the information? What surprised you?
• What does all this mean for you as a care partner?
• Now that you've reviewed the activity sheet, what will you continue to do in your role as a care partner?  What will you stop or do differently?

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Additional Reading

Communication - Day to Day Series

Enhancing Communication: A By Us For Us Guide

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To continue your learning experience, move ahead to Session 9 where we'll help you understand stress and how it affects your body. You will develop coping strategies to deal with the stress which results from your role as a care partner.