Tip of the Week: Processing speed

Many people with PWS have delayed processing speed, which means it may take them longer than typical to hear something and then understand it fully. They may nod their head and tell you that they understand what you just said, but it is possible that they are just agreeing and did not fully understand your instructions. To be sure that you are communicating effectively, ask the person with PWS to repeat back to you what you just said; this will give you a good understanding of their processing speed. It may be that you need to give one-step or two-step instructions before moving on. Also, remember that in times of high anxiety, processing speed will slow down.

Patrice Carroll, Latham Centers’ Director of PWS Services, is world-renowned for her Prader-Willi syndrome expertise. She works with Latham students and residents, their families, and other experts, continuously learning and teaching about PWS best practices. If you have PWS-related questions, we invite you to email TipTopics@LathamCenters.org.