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Val avatar

Does anyone have ideas of what to do when your residents/participants only know one language, such as french, spanish, arabic? I am going to get some books at the library with both english and the foreign languages translation.

Solange avatar

Hi, Val, this is a growing challenge for Activity staff. I assume you already have the Multilingual flashcards or Cue cards with medical-related and some social issues. They are beneficial but not enough; they don’t replace individualized care. Here are other strategies for you to consider: 1 - Hire Bilingual staff/interpreters 2 - Staff to learn some phonetically sounding words in the language required 3 - Connect the resident with culturally specific community/clubs/churches 4 - Requesting bilingual volunteers from government bodies and Community boards (in churches/supermarkets) 5 - Encourage residents’ families to visit more often - 6 - Search local libraries for magazines, music, videos and movies in the language required.

Christine avatar

Hi everyone I am doing some light duties due to a injury assisting the OTA I am so new to this and was wondering if anyone can help me in what I could do when a resident reverts to their original language during activities. Please help sometimes I just smile and show her some hand movements to finish the task. But she gets agitated. Please help

Susan avatar

Kristine you are on the right track

Using hand movements and gestures help

You can also learn some positive words or the language she is speaking

You can also assume that she is answering your question and answer back in English

If this fails do an activity that does not require language such as

https://www.goldencarers.com/aphasia-activity-ideas-for-activity-coordinators/5406/

Or

Cue cards

https://www.goldencarers.com/cue-cards-for-dementia-care/4744/

Christine avatar

Thanks Susan thanks so much.I appreciate your time in replying. I love this group. Great ideas. Which I will be using.

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Rose Arcellana
Activity Organizer United Kingdom Flag
Rose Arcellana

I'm so happy I found this site. It's been very helpful to me for my job and for the residents I care for. Many thanks to GoldenCarers you're doing an excellent job!