As baby boomers increase in age, the face of the American population will change dramatically. By the year 2030, a projected 71 million Americans will be age 65 or older, an increase of more than 200 percent from the year 2000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.1 It’s estimated that some 6,000 people turn age 65 every day and, by 2012, 10,000 people will turn age 65 every day.2 Show
Aging health care consumers will increase the demand for physicians’ services. In the United States, people over the age of 65 visit their doctor an average of eight times per year, compared to the general population’s average of five visits per year.3 Physicians should prepare for an increasing number of older patients by developing a greater understanding of this population and how to enhance communication with them. The communication process in general is complex and can be further complicated by age. One of the biggest problems physicians face when dealing with older patients is that they are actually more heterogeneous than younger people. Their wide range of life experiences and cultural backgrounds often influence their “perception of illness, willingness to adhere to medical regimens and ability to communicate effectively with health care providers.”4 Communication can also be hindered by the normal aging process, which may involve sensory loss, decline in memory, slower processing of information, lessening of power and influence over their own lives, retirement from work, and separation from family and friends.5 At a time when older patients have the greatest need to communicate with their physicians, life and physiologic changes make it the most difficult. Because “unclear communication can cause the whole medical encounter to fall apart,”6 physicians should pay careful attention to this aspect of their practice. This article provides suggestions compiled from an extensive review of the literature to help physicians and staff improve communication with older patients. Many of the suggestions can be applied to patients of all age groups; however, they are particularly important with older adults, for whom less-than-optimal communication may have more negative consequences. Communication tips for physiciansIf you walked into a room and wanted to listen to the radio, you would first have to plug it in to a power source. Similarly, when you walk into the exam room to communicate with your older patients, the first thing you have to do is “plug in,” that is, make a connection with them physically and emotionally. Once you’ve made that connection, you can then begin to communicate necessary information and instructions. Below is a list of tips to help you achieve this.
TAKE-HOME MESSAGES FOR YOUR PATIENTSProviding patients with a visit summary such as the one shown here can help them remember the key points of their visit. Click below to download a blank template.
Communication tips for staffUsing the radio analogy again, how nice would it be if, when you wanted to listen to the radio, it was already plugged in and playing music when you entered the room. This is where your staff can help. They can contribute greatly to your communication success by helping older patients feel comfortable and prepared for your consultation. Here’s how:
Communication is not an exact science; you will need to experiment and find which strategies work best for you and your staff. You will also need to remember that different patients have different communication needs, which may require different techniques. However, if you begin with the tips provided and if you train your staff to follow them, you will find increased levels of comfort and satisfaction among your elderly patients, and you will be better able to care for this growing population. What is the importance of eye contact in communication?Eye contact during a conversation is vital. It shows attentiveness and interest in what is being said. Eye contact is similar to a conversation; it goes back and forth between those individuals who are engaged in a discussion, dialogue, or chat.
Why is eye contact important in health and social care?Long unbroken eye contact can express interest. If you are listening to someone, this can show you are paying attention to what they're saying. Making eye contact can be a way of building a connection with someone.
Why is eye contact important in nonverbal communication?Eye contact.
The way you look at someone can communicate many things, including interest, affection, hostility, or attraction. Eye contact is also important in maintaining the flow of conversation and for gauging the other person's interest and response.
How does an eye contact maintain the flow of conversation?Eye contact helps you focus and concentrate on the topic of discussion. The moment you break the eye contact, your mind may wander away from the problem, breaking the flow of the conversation. When you look directly into the eyes of the people you are addressing, they will show interest in the matter.
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