Page 49 - Vibrant Living Scrapbook

The Art of Conversation – Where Did It Go?
Conversation is probably our most normal daily activity. Even the smallest conversation can be meaningful. Casual conversation during the course of a caregiver helping a resident get dressed can lessen the potential of drudgery for both. A nurse at Perham Memorial said, “I got to talking about old cars one day. All the residents ended up by me around one small table and were (disappointed) when I had to go to work.”
Community Learning Circle Questions
Conversation is an art. We all know people who struggle to carry on a conversation, and we all know at least one person who won’t shut up or let a word in edge-wise. Usually we find ourselves somewhere between these two extremes unless we’re suddenly in a new situation – like a new job, at a party where we don’t know anyone, or newly moved into the neighborhood or household.
Lots of times we have nothing to say when we feel controlled by authority. We’re told to line up quietly or given a number to tell us when it is our turn. Sadly, lots of nursing homes have this same feel of authority and institution. Perhaps we’ve worked in or visited a loved one in such a nursing home. We were shocked at how little residents talked, as if they were all told to sit and be quiet.
But that’s not what we want in our households. We want to create a warm and loving place; a home where, if you’re talkative, that’s what you do. And if you like being quiet, we respect you for it. But if you’re trying to be less shy, this is the place to learn new ways.
That’s our philosophy here, and we staff work hard to uphold it. But we can always use your advice and suggestions on how to make this
a place where all individuals can truly be who they are.
So our question today is: (ask all three sentences at once - as one question).
How would you describe yourself – do you love to talk? Are you a quiet person? Is this the way you’ve been all your life?
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