Communication & Swallowing in Ageing

Question 1

What impact does ageing have on communication, social interaction and swallowing?

Answer 1

communication: declined in comprehension and production. decline in perception (visual, auditory). decline in word retrieval/spelling. decline in processing (noise, speech rates)

social engagement:

swallowing: slower mastication, slower swallow in oral phrayngeal stages, avoiding to talk while eating. dentition needs to be considered and needs to be checked to be safe and fitting well.

Question 2

Strategies to support maintenance of communication skills, social engagement and swallowing.

Answer 2

Communication:

Social Interaction:

Swallowing: setting up a meal plan to promote safe eating. food that include liquids (sauce, soups, gravy) to assist with swallowing. assistance with cutting food. possibly placing people next to the most ensure water is available to consider a reduction in saliva production.
moist foods. soft steamed foods. avoid nuts (hard food) dry biscuits.

Question 3

What are some strategies for communicating with older adults?

Answer 3

Understand the person’s communication strengths and weaknesses.
Sit face to face if culturally appropriate.
Hold conversations in a quiet, comfortable environment.
Watch for non-verbal cues.
Speak clearly and on one topic at a time.
Use positive statements
Use active rather than passive tense
Support verbal with written
Allow extra time for processing

Question 4

Strategies to support maintenance of communication skills, social engagement and swallowing.

Answer 4

Communication:

Social Interaction:

Swallowing: setting up a meal plan to promote safe eating. food that include liquids (sauce, soups, gravy) to assist with swallowing. assist with cutting food. ensure water is available to consider a reduction in saliva production.

Question 5

Name and describe 3 models of communication with the ageing population.

Answer 5

1. Communication Predictment in Ageing
   Encounter-> recognition of old age cues->stereotyping->modified behaviour/elder speak -> constrained opportunities-> loss of self esteem->negative changes in old age cues
2. Age stereotypes in Interaction
   Allows for positive and negative stereotyping and better considers the role of context. The cycle may be interrupted by the response of the ageing person.
3. Communication Enhancement model
   Continual assessment/re-evaluation of old age cues which avoids stereotyping, recognition of impact of context -> empowerment and maximised communication