Guidelines for Communicating with Older Persons

If you are caring for an older person, you may find that communicating is sometimes a challenge. Here are some rules to follow that may help you communicate with any older adult.

General Principles

1. Use plan language. That means using words that people will understand the first time they hear it.
2. Use the word "you" whenever it's appropriate to make communication more personal.
3. Repect the person's background, knowledge, and values.

Personal Contact

1. Get low and go slow. If you want to make someone comfortable, don't position yourself so that you are standing or seated above that person.
2. Take your time; do not rush the person.
3. Watch your tone of voice and body language. They reflect your attitude and may mean more than the words you say.
4. To overcome hearinf difficulties, eliminate background noises to the extent possible. Keep sentences short and emphasize key words.
5. Use their name frquently and show respect.
6. Make eye contact, and maintain it as much as possible.
7. Ask one question at a time.
8. Be patient. If the person has a story, let them tell it in their own way and time.
9. Keep it simple, sincere, and clear.

Above all, reassure the person by showing that you are interested and that you care.