Communicating with the Elderly

Communicating with others is a basic human need and the foundation for all social interactions. When healthcare workers effectively communicate with those for whom they care, it helps patients feel less isolated and can improve their sense of wellbeing. Often, the effects of aging, illness, and disabilities can become barriers to effective caregiver-patient communication. Paying attention to another's communication needs is one of the most important duties of any healthcare provider. When they understand how the communication process works and how to effectively send and receive message, healthcare workers are better able to meet the needs of those for whom they care.