I’ve always heard that one skill we can all improve in our lives is communication. Some of us talk to or at each other and some actually engage in real, meaningful communication. Learning to better communicate with older adults is necessary, especially if you work in senior care. But, beyond this, good communication is the foundation of healthy relationships. In other words, it’s a must.
What are Effective Communication Skills?
Learning to become an effective communicator is absolutely critical for healthcare professionals. These skills involve verbal, nonverbal and written communication. When it comes to verbal communication, you should start by assessing what the older adult understands and how they communicate.
It is important to use words that they will be used to and understand. There is no need for medical jargon or terminology and definitely no slang. It is equally important to take your time when communicating with an older adult. They are usually in no rush. Make sure he or she understands what you are trying to say.
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Nonverbal communication can be an effective way to convey thoughts and messages. This includes facial expressions, body movements, posture, eye contact, gestures, touch and one’s tone of voice. Nonverbal communication may be especially effective with older adults who have experienced hearing loss or cognitive function. Positive nonverbal cues can maintain a trusting and therapeutic relationship.
Sometimes verbal and nonverbal communication may not be effective with older adults who have had a stroke, or who have a cognitive impairment due to some neurodegenerative process. This is when written communication may be best used. The print should always be large enough for the older adult to see. The actual language or content should accommodate any cognitive or physical age-related changes and limitations.
Communicating Effectively with Older Adults Who Have Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is the number 1 condition affecting older adults. As a matter of fact, over 60% of people over the age of 85 report hearing loss as a major problem in their lives. It’s not too difficult to tell whether an older adult has hearing loss or not. How loud is their T.V.? Do they turn their head to listen to you? Do they not understand what is being said? Do they provide inappropriate answers? Do they ask you to repeat yourself over and over? Do they complain that people don’t talk loud enough? And, do they appear to be inattentive?
There are many ways to enhance communication when the older adult has hearing impairment. First, ask the individual if he or she can hear you. Use a lower tone of voice while speaking. The older ear prefers lower tones. Speak clearly and slowly. Talk face-to-face. Provide good lighting if the older adult is good at reading lips. Always give the individual time to respond. Use visual aids when necessary. Don’t cover your mouth while speaking. Reduce any background noise that may interfere with hearing. And, sometimes you may have to reword your message.
Communicating Effectively with Older Adults Who Have Cognitive Impairment
Many age-related changes occur in how we learn, our memory, and in cognition in general. Any of these changes can interfere with how we communicate and understand one another. They can surely interfere with communication between caregivers and older adult residents living in a care community. Some age-related changes include a decline in the way we process information, increased distraction, decreased memory, increased time to learn new information, greater time to retrieve information from our memory and decreased performance in tasks that require fine coordination and speed.
So how does one communicate effectively with an older adult who has cognitive decline due to Alzheimer’s disease? We start with the basics. Always introduce yourself to the older adult and make sure they know your name and what you’re there to do. Use their name as often as you can while communicating with them. This enhances self-awareness and orientation. Speak slowly, use simple words, and ask one question at a time. If necessary, use visual aids or written communication. Always monitor the tone and volume of your voice. And, perhaps one of the most important skills to possess while communicating with an older adult with sensory or cognitive deficits – patience.
(NOTE: Interested in learning more about Leadership in health care? Checkout my Leadership CEUs on CEU Academy and try a FREE CEU today!)