It’s incredibly stressful to be unable to communicate with the people who are trying to help you. That’s something that adults with developmental disabilities face every day. If you’re a caregiver to a family member with developmental issues, it’s going to help both of you to determine a better way to communicate.

Get to Know What Might not Work, if Possible.

Some people with autism are uncomfortable and can’t communicate when someone touches them or tries to maintain constant eye contact. If you already know that these techniques don’t work for your family member, then you’re going to want to avoid those. While you’re trying new techniques, the ones that elicit a negative response are definitely something you’ll want to think about carefully before trying again.

Use Plain Talk Rather than Slang or Jargon.

Often people who have developmental disabilities aren’t able to understand jargon or slang as easily as other people might be able to. When you try to use terminology that is obtuse or difficult to understand, you’re putting another barrier to communication in place. It’s much easier to use plain words and phrases instead.

Maintain Eye Contact, if You Can.

Eye contact is really helpful in making sure that you’re communicating effectively with someone. But for some people, particularly people with developmental disabilities, prolonged direct eye contact is threatening. If you’re noticing that’s the case, then don’t worry so much about maintaining eye contact. A gentle touch can work just as well.

Listen as Much as Possible.

It might go without saying that listening is a huge part of communicating, but when you’re having trouble communicating with someone it can become a little more difficult to listen effectively. Try to adopt a conscious listening habit. Your family member may also communicate with you through body language, so it’s important to pay close attention.

Work with Home Care Providers Who Can Help Shorten the Learning Curve

Home care for adults with developmental disabilities is a helpful source of information about communication and other issues your family member might be having. These experts can help you to shorten your learning curve significantly when it comes to developing a communication style that works for both you and your family member.

When you can work out the difficulties in communication with the adults in your life who have developmental disabilities, life will be less stressful for both of you. Having the help that you need makes that task so much easier.