Question

Discussion Question:

Discuss ways to effectively communicate with a cognitively impaired older adult.

Answer 1

Cognitive impairment can occur as one ages due to varied reasons. Some of the ways to communicate effectively with a cognitive impaired older adults are

• Listen actively to the patients complaints, this can grab the patient's attention that the professionals are hearing to their concern
• Communicate in a lower tone(aggresive talk can trigger fear) ,low speed (high speed with lack of clarity can lead to further confusion)
• Establish an eye contact with the patient
• Self introduction and helping patient to come out with difficult words for them to express due to forgetting
• Assess the patient dir ant hearing impairment which can be certainly found in oldage
• Make sure an assistance is provided to the patient from the family side to help them for regular follow ups and meeting their medication regimen