Communication with the older adult Flashcards
Effects of ageing and how it impacts communication
-hearing changes- 1 in 3 over 65yrs
-vision changes
-weaker voice- weakening vocal muscles
-slowing of motor processes
-cognitive impairment eg. Alzheimers
-dentition changes- false teeth
-medication side effects
-anxiety, depression
How to be sensitive to patients
-treat how you wish your own older relative to be treated
-treat every individual with respect and dignity
-don’t assume your patient has a cognitive or sensory impairment
How to start convo with patient
-make sure you’ve got their attention
-eliminate distractions, reduce background noise, turn lights on
-check if they require hearing aids/ glasses
-only have one person conduct the interview at a time
-keep interactions short and simple
-don’t interrupt them
Body language with elderly
-arms length away
-face patient at eye level
-make sure eyes and mouth are clearly visible
What to do if patient can’t hear you
-don’t shout
-speak into better ear
-keep vocal pitch low
-keep voice and mannerism calm
Reasons elderly might not want to go to hospital
-loss independence
-may never leave hospital
-nursing home
-care expenses
-separation anxiety
-pets
-household security
Recognising caregiver stress or burn out
-physical effects
-emotional effects
-effects on patient/ family
-more than one patient
Dementia stats
-nearly 1 million sufferers in UK
-effects 1 in 14 ppl over 65
-effects 1 in 5 over 80
Aphasia
-impairment of the ability to use or comprehend words usually acquired as a result of a stroke or brain injury
Comms with patients with aphasia
-give them time to talk
-use simple and focussed questions
-used gestures and visual aids
Ageism
systematic stereotyping of and discrimination against people who are old
