The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the way we interact, particularly affecting communication between health care professionals and older adults. With protective measures such as face masks and social distancing in place, these interactions have become more challenging. This blog post explores practical strategies derived from recent research to help practitioners enhance their communication skills with older adults, especially those experiencing hearing loss.
The Impact of Pandemic Measures on Communication
The implementation of COVID-19 protective measures has had unintended consequences on communication. Face masks obscure facial expressions and lip movements crucial for speechreading, while physical distancing reduces the clarity of speech signals. These barriers are particularly challenging for older adults with hearing loss, who rely heavily on visual cues to understand speech.
Strategies for Effective Communication
To address these challenges, health care professionals can employ a range of strategies that fall into three main categories: anticipation, repair, and maintenance strategies.
Anticipation Strategies
- Modify the Environment: Ensure good lighting and minimize background noise by closing doors or turning off unnecessary equipment.
- Prepare the Patient: Inform patients about the topic of conversation in advance and ensure they are wearing their hearing aids if applicable.
- Acknowledge Limitations: Clearly state any communication difficulties you may have due to protective gear.
Repair Strategies
- Use Clear Speech: Speak slightly louder and slower than usual without exaggerating your speech patterns.
- Simplify Language: Avoid jargon and use simple sentences to convey information effectively.
- Utilize Non-Verbal Cues: Use gestures and body language to complement verbal communication.
Maintenance Strategies
- Nod and Confirm: Use nodding or verbal affirmations to show understanding and encourage feedback from the patient.
- Sustain Engagement: Maintain eye contact (as much as possible with masks) and demonstrate active listening through body language.
- Create a Supportive Environment: Encourage questions and verify understanding by asking patients to repeat instructions back to you.
The Role of Technology in Communication
The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telehealth services. While these technologies reduce infection risk, they introduce new challenges for those with hearing difficulties. Ensuring good audio quality, using video calls where possible for visual cues, and employing captioning services can significantly enhance communication effectiveness.
A Call to Action for Health Care Professionals
This challenging time calls for health care professionals to be proactive in adapting their communication methods. By implementing these strategies, practitioners can improve their interactions with older adults, ensuring that they receive the care and support they need. Continuous learning and adaptation are crucial as we navigate this evolving landscape.
