Talking with Your Older Patient
Communicating well with older patients can be a challenge for many healthcare professionals, often complicated by issues such as hearing loss and memory problems. Learn how to talk effectively with older patients, including how to discuss cognitive impairment, break bad news, and work with families and caregivers.
Articles
Effective Communication in Caring for Older Adults
Good communication is an important part of the healing process. Learn effective communication techniques to build good relationships with older patients and better manage their care.
Healthcare Perceptions About Older Patients
Learn how perceptions about older patients can affect their health care.
Understanding Older Patients
Use these tips to communicate with older patients in ways that are respectful and effective for information exchange.
Obtaining an Older Patient's Medical History
Learn how to obtain a medical history of an older patient, including important information about current and past concerns, family history, medications, and socioeconomic situation.
Encouraging Wellness in Older Patients
Older adults may have challenges with exercising regularly and eating well. Learn how to encourage physical activity and healthy diets for older patients.
Talking with Older Patients About Sensitive Subjects
Caring for an older patient requires discussing sensitive topics. Learn about ways to approach sensitive subjects with older patients and helpful resources.
Supporting Older Patients with Chronic Conditions
Learn how clinicians can play an important role in educating patients and families about chronic health conditions and providing community resources.
Breaking Bad News to Older Patients
Delivering bad news to patients is never easy. Learn about tested communication strategies to help ease the process.
Working with Diverse Older Patients
Learn how understanding the traditions of different cultures among older patients and providing interpretation for those with limited English can help promote good health care.
How Can I Include Families and Caregivers of Older Patients?
Family and informal caregivers play a significant role in the lives of their loved ones. Learn how to communicate effectively with all of those involved in your older patient's care.
Talking with Older Patients About Cognitive Problems
Learn how to address an older patient's concerns about cognitive problems, such as changes in their memory or thinking.
Communicating with a Confused Patient
Use these tips to effectively work and communicate with cognitively impaired patients.
