ACC - Alzheimers Caregiver Communication and Person-Centered Care Questions and Answers

Question 1

A person with mid-stage Alzheimer's disease becomes agitated and insists that she needs to leave to go pick up her children from school, even though her children are grown adults. What is the MOST appropriate person-centered communication technique to use in this situation?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge her feelings of responsibility and ask her to tell you about her children.

Answer

This response uses Validation Therapy, which focuses on acknowledging the person's feelings and the reality they are experiencing, rather than correcting them. Asking about her children validates her emotions and redirects the conversation in a positive way, which can reduce anxiety and agitation. Reality orientation can increase agitation in later stages, and simply distracting may not address the underlying emotional need.

Question 2

Which of the following is a key principle of person-centered care language when communicating with or about an individual with dementia?

Accepted Answer

Using 'person-first' language, such as 'a person living with dementia'.

Answer

Person-centered care emphasizes the individuality and dignity of the person. 'Person-first' language focuses on the individual rather than the disease, for example, saying 'a person living with dementia' instead of 'a dementia patient'. This approach avoids labeling and promotes respect.

Question 3

When communicating with a person in the late stage of Alzheimer's disease who has very limited verbal ability, which strategy is most crucial?

Accepted Answer

Relying heavily on non-verbal cues like tone of voice, facial expressions, and gentle touch.

Answer

In the late stages of Alzheimer's, individuals may lose the ability to use and understand words, making non-verbal communication essential. Caregivers should pay close attention to body language and use a calm tone, gentle touch, and reassuring facial expressions to communicate. This approach fosters a sense of connection and security when verbal communication fails.

Question 4

A caregiver is helping a resident with dementia get dressed. The resident becomes frustrated and says, 'Leave me alone! I can do it myself!' although they are struggling with the buttons. Which response best reflects a person-centered approach?

Accepted Answer

"You're right, you are very capable. How about I help with just this one tricky button?"

Answer

This response respects the resident's desire for autonomy and dignity while offering minimal, targeted assistance. It validates their statement ('You're right') and then negotiates a way to help that is less intrusive, which is a core component of person-centered care.

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a recommended technique for effective communication in mid-stage dementia?

Accepted Answer

Presenting multiple choices at once to encourage decision-making.

Answer

Presenting multiple choices can be overwhelming and confusing for a person in the middle stages of dementia. It is better to offer limited choices, often just two at a time, or ask simple yes-or-no questions. A quiet environment, using visual cues, and simplifying questions are all recommended strategies.

(ACC) Alzheimers Caregiver Certification Practice Test

(ACC) Alzheimers Caregiver Certification Practice Test

ACC - Alzheimers Caregiver Communication and Person-Centered Care Questions and Answers