Being understood – why communication matters

Libby learning signing with Emma

Learning how to communicate with each other has made a real difference to everyday life.

We support Emma at our Malvern care home. She communicates mainly through signing, using her own adapted version of Makaton. Her support team know her signs well and support her with communication in a way that works for her.

Rob and Libby, who live with Emma, noticed that when they couldn’t understand what Emma wanted to say, she could become upset or frustrated. They could see how different things were when staff signed with her and how Emma knew she was being understood and they wanted to get involved.

They started watching Makaton signing on television, and their support team helped them to look up signs online and practise together, so they could better understand Emma.

Now, signing is part of daily life in the house. When Emma signs, Rob or Libby often understand straight away and can sign back. When they get the signs wrong, Emma laughs and loves correcting them – she shows them the sign and backs it up with actions.

For Emma, being understood makes a difference and there is something powerful for her when she is the one teaching others and seeing them take the time to learn her way of communicating.

Communication – being heard and understood is essential to everyone’s quality of life. This small decision by Rob and Libby has helped strengthen their relationships with Emma, and a great reminder that communication is about connection with everyone around us.