Enhancing communication with older adults: overcoming elderspeak.
Because communication behaviors are difficult to change, practicing speech without elderspeak is helpful in preparing for actual clinical situations. The Communication Enhancement Model describes potential benefits of eliminating elderspeak in speech to older adults. Minimizing the use of elderspeak is hypothesized to reduce stereotype-based messages that older adults are incompetent and dependent. An improved communication environment promotes the cognitive and functional abilities of older adults. Achieving optimal communication environments may contribute to higher levels of well-being for older adults and to increased quality of life. Young adult care providers also may benefit from increased job satisfaction if they relate closely with care recipients.
Williams
Kristine
K
University of Kansas School of Nursing, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA. kwilliams1@kumc.edu
Kemper
Susan
S
Hummert
Mary Lee
ML
D000368:Aged / Q000523:psychology*; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003142:Communication; D004644:Emotions; D004645:Empathy; D005851:Geriatric Nursing / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D016901:Intergenerational Relations; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009341:Negativism; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D026706:Paternalism; D011287:Prejudice; D012649:Self Concept; D012660:Semantics; D012944:Social Support; D013240:Stereotyping