Geriatric Communication Study Guide
Guide to age-related communication changes and effective strategies for interacting with older adults. Covers hearing, vision, cognitive issues, and tailored techniques for dementia, aphasia, and sensory impairments in clinical settings.
Daniel Miller
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Here's a Geriatric Nursing Study Guide o n Communication — brief, practical, and perfect
for dinicals or exams:
Geriatric C o m m u n i c a t i o n : S t u d y G u i d e
| Age-Related Changes Affecting Communication
Change Impact on Communication
l Hearing (presbycusis) Difficulty7 hearing high-pitched voices,
consonants
1 Vision Trouble seeing non-verbal cues, facial
expressions
1 Cognitive processing speed Slower understanding, delayed
responses
1 Short-term memory Repetition may be needed
Speech changes (stroke, Parkinson's) Slurred or slow speech
* Key Principles for Effective Communication
* Use dear, slow speech — but do not shout
* Face the patient when speaking: ensure good lighting
* Use simple sentences and avoid medical jargon
* Give one instruction at a time
* Use visual aids, gestures, and repetition
* Allow extra time for response
* Confirm understanding: 'Can you tell me in your own words..."
Communication Techniques by Situation
Scenario Strategy
Hearing loss Speak clearly, lower tone of voice,
face patient
Vision impairment Verbally identify yourself and
surroundings
Cognitive impairment Use validation, redirection, familiar
routines
Dementia Use calm tone, limit choices, avoid
arguing
Aphasia (post-stroke) Use yes/no questions, communication
for dinicals or exams:
Geriatric C o m m u n i c a t i o n : S t u d y G u i d e
| Age-Related Changes Affecting Communication
Change Impact on Communication
l Hearing (presbycusis) Difficulty7 hearing high-pitched voices,
consonants
1 Vision Trouble seeing non-verbal cues, facial
expressions
1 Cognitive processing speed Slower understanding, delayed
responses
1 Short-term memory Repetition may be needed
Speech changes (stroke, Parkinson's) Slurred or slow speech
* Key Principles for Effective Communication
* Use dear, slow speech — but do not shout
* Face the patient when speaking: ensure good lighting
* Use simple sentences and avoid medical jargon
* Give one instruction at a time
* Use visual aids, gestures, and repetition
* Allow extra time for response
* Confirm understanding: 'Can you tell me in your own words..."
Communication Techniques by Situation
Scenario Strategy
Hearing loss Speak clearly, lower tone of voice,
face patient
Vision impairment Verbally identify yourself and
surroundings
Cognitive impairment Use validation, redirection, familiar
routines
Dementia Use calm tone, limit choices, avoid
arguing
Aphasia (post-stroke) Use yes/no questions, communication
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