According to Wikipedia, communication is defined as “the act of conveying intended meaning to another entity through the use of mutually understood signs and semiotic rules. The basic steps of communication are the forming of communicative intent, message composition, message encoding, transmission of signal, reception of signal, message decoding and finally interpretation of the message by the recipient.

Now that we have defined what communication is let’s talk about how grief and stress can lead to misunderstandings. As in home caregivers we have an opportunity to help improve communication during times of stress, this occurs between the caregiver, client, family members, and anyone who is helping improve the clients wellbeing. Unfortunately, because stress affects brain function, as documented by the medical profession, the attempt to communicate the intended message effectively may not be received as implied. There are several causes for this these can include, personality differences, aggravated health conditions, and an overall exasperated state.

Gem of the month “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”

George Bernard Shaw

The illusion of communication is that you believe your message was received as intended. If a miscommunication has occurred there may be feelings of offense. How do we remedy this? My first recommendation is to have compassion for the circumstance AND the person you are talking to. If the communication has failed, try again, sometimes different wording expresses the thought better. Last but not least, “I am sorry” needs to be offered to the offended with a sincerity that reestablishes attempts to communicate. In attempt to communicate effectively active listening and the return receipt of the message received are the ways in which we acknowledge communication and understanding. If these components are present your attempt to communicate has not failed.