Positive patient outcomes are facilitated by effective communication between

physicians and their patients. Learning and employing appropriate communication

methods will assist you in developing more rewarding connections with older patients
and improving your ability to manage their care.

Start with the Right Body Language

Seating directly opposite to the patient improves communication
as it shows that the care provider has focused on the client completely.
Maintaining eye contact with patients is also vital since it commands
their attention and aids in the interpretation of facial cues.

Exercise Patience
When it comes to treating seniors, caregivers must be patient.
Providers may need to repeat talking points numerous times before the
patient grasps the idea completely. If speaking with a client involves too
much repetition, care workers should talk more slowly and clearly until
the client understands. Patients who are older may also take longer to
respond during chats.

Show Proper Respect

While many people have heard the expression "respect your
elders," it’s especially important during treatment. Providers should
keep in mind that senior clients may have varied viewpoints on
current events. It's critical to recognize the range of experiences that
seniors have to give. This understanding can aid communication by
bridging generational divides.

Practice Active Listening

When working with seniors, it's critical to pay attention to
what they're saying and keep in mind that both parties may
struggle to communicate their thoughts. Body language, such as
positive nods, should also be used to acknowledge receipt of
communications without interrupting the client. If a care provider
doesn't understand what a patient is attempting to say, they
should ask for clarification.

Use Plain Language

Patients' physiology alters dramatically as they age. Clients'
hearing, vision, and short- and long-term memory may begin to
deteriorate, altering their ability to absorb and process
information. It's easier for senior clients to grasp new topics when
you use plain language.

Ensure Comfort
Both patients and their family members require physical comfort.
Distracts during therapy are reduced when physical discomfort is
alleviated. It can be difficult to keep elderly individuals comfortable,
especially if they have many ailments. Simple actions, such as offering
a blanket or jumper to a cold patient, can assure patient comfort.

Source: Regis College (2021). 10 Tips for Nurses to Effectively Communicate with Elderly Patients. Retrieved from:
https://online.regiscollege.edu/blog/elderly-patient-care/