Interacting With Older Adults Essay
Interacting with Older Adults The future of health care in America will critically focus on older adults and chronic diseases. Presently, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] (2013) reported that more than half of older adults have multiple chronic conditions. Accordingly, major health agencies urge care providers to expand their education and training in gerontology. Similarly, to meet the needs of the seniors effectively, medical staff need to be well-informed of the culture and concerns of older adults and be skilled in communicating with them. In the article written by Hill (2012), important suggestions were offered to avoid ageism and promote holistic care during patient interactions. In avoiding ageism, Hill (2012)
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For example, Hill (2012) cited that caretakers should adjust the tone and volume of their voice to accommodate the older adults’ needs to understand. In addition, Hill (2012) urged caretakers to resist the tendency to shout at hearing impaired patients. As an alternative, Hill (2012) recommended that a caretaker should face the patient and minimize other noises in the surroundings. To preserve their mental beings, Hill (2012) offered caretakers to allow the older patients to make decisions for themselves despite the family’s presence. Most importantly, Hill (2012) noted that caretakers should be careful in addressing delicate topics, such as stress incontinence or constipation, without embarrassing them. Also, Hill (2012) encouraged the use of appropriate touch to show support and understanding to older adults. Communicating with older adults require intentional holistic caring and avoidance of ageism. It is also noteworthy to mention that these aging boomers made significant contributions to the country and therefore, deserve the respect and treatment they rightfully earned. Since, the older adults will be the majority of patients in the coming future, care providers should equip themselves in communicating with them and addressing their needs
For example, Hill (2012) cited that caretakers should adjust the tone and volume of their voice to accommodate the older adults’ needs to understand. In addition, Hill (2012) urged caretakers to resist the tendency to shout at hearing impaired patients. As an alternative, Hill (2012) recommended that a caretaker should face the patient and minimize other noises in the surroundings. To preserve their mental beings, Hill (2012) offered caretakers to allow the older patients to make decisions for themselves despite the family’s presence. Most importantly, Hill (2012) noted that caretakers should be careful in addressing delicate topics, such as stress incontinence or constipation, without embarrassing them. Also, Hill (2012) encouraged the use of appropriate touch to show support and understanding to older adults. Communicating with older adults require intentional holistic caring and avoidance of ageism. It is also noteworthy to mention that these aging boomers made significant contributions to the country and therefore, deserve the respect and treatment they rightfully earned. Since, the older adults will be the majority of patients in the coming future, care providers should equip themselves in communicating with them and addressing their needs