Unit 74 1.1 Explain the importance of meeting an individual’s communication needs.
Service users who have communication problems need support to enable them to express themselves effectively. It is therefore important for the carer to be aware of the individuals preferred method of communication and also to support the individual to use their preferred method. Service users have the right to communicate through their chosen method and their choice should be acknowledged and respected by supporting them. The Service user’s right are particularly important when using specific communication methods and language because it’s their major way of communicating their needs and preferences. Communication is a basic human right. Without
Physical disabilities
When the physical disability affects the individual’s facial muscles or vocal cords their verbal communication can be affected. If it affects their bodily movement or head control it can affect their non-verbal communication.

Cerebral palsy
The causes of this condition are vast, all leading to damage of the individual’s brain. Cerebral palsy can cause differing disabilities depending on the part of the brain affected. The individual with cerebral palsy may have difficulty communicating or developing recognisable speech.

Other physical disabilities which can affect communication are cerebral vascular accident - stroke (CVA), motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis and Parkism.

Mental health problems
A mental health problem is one that affects how an individual relates to his or her environment due to changes within the brain caused by injury, infection, age or substance abuse.

Dementia
The most common mental health problem within older people is dementia. Dementia is a progressive disorder that can affect the individual’s short- and sometimes long-term memory. It also affects the individual’s recognition of people or things, speech, understanding, concentration, orientation and motivation.

Other mental health problems which can affect communication are, Parkinson’s disease, depression. Neurosis, schizophrenia, alcohol and drug reliance.

1.5 Identify a range of communication methods and aids to