Foundation Course -- Mary

Foundation Course Goal

• The primary goal of the FOUNDATION COURSE is to promote understanding and inclusivity for individuals of all ages and abilities.

Mary's Needs and Interests

• Mary has difficulty hearing and requires assistance with directions.
• Mary is eager to try out a new hair salon.
• Mary primarily relies on her personal car to visit the hair salon.
• Mary feels confident using public transit systems.
• Mary prefers delicate and light perfume products.
• Mary enjoys eating out and interacting with others.
• Mary identifies as a mature adult with a keen interest in food and dining.

Accessibility as a Right

• Accessibility is a fundamental right for all individuals.
• Mary uses online reviews to try out new places, such as a hair salon.

Rhonda Latreille's View on Accessibility

• Rhonda Latreille emphasizes the importance of personalized accessibility solutions that cater to individual needs.

Common Mistakes in Communication

• A common mistake made by operators when communicating with Mary is not speaking clearly and directly to her.
• It is crucial for operators to be aware of potential hearing limitations and tailor their communication accordingly.

Transportation and Community Connection

• Transportation plays a key role in enabling individuals, especially seniors, to connect with their communities, access essential services, and maintain social engagement.

Senior Transportation Trends

• Seniors generally have a low rate of public transportation ridership.
• This is often due to factors such as limited affordability, concerns about accessibility, and lack of awareness about available services.

Challenges Seniors Face

• Challenges that seniors face include:
  • Limited mobility: Difficulty with walking, driving, or using public transportation.
  • Financial constraints: Difficulty affording transportation costs.
  • Cognitive decline: Difficulty navigating complex routes or remembering schedules.
  • Social isolation: Less access to social activities and potential loneliness.

Solutions for Seniors

• Potential solutions include:
  • Transportation programs designed for seniors: Providing affordable rides and tailored services.
  • Enhanced communication strategies: Clearer signs, visual cues, and dedicated customer service.
  • Accessible infrastructure: Curb cuts, ramps, and accessible vehicles.

Community Initiatives

• Communities may implement programs like senior transportation services, accessible routes, and designated accessible parking spaces to enhance mobility and inclusion for older adults.
• Schedule reliability is crucial for transportation agencies to effectively serve the needs of seniors.

Strategies for Effective Communication

• Lip reading can help Mary understand conversations when facing hearing challenges.
• Accessible communication tools and training for transit operators and taxi drivers can enable them to better serve the needs of older riders.

Consumer Observations

• The local business group learned that older citizens often feel ignored and underestimated by businesses.
• Recognizing and addressing the unique needs and preferences of older consumers can enhance their overall satisfaction and foster positive business relationships.

Ageism and Discrimination

• The oversight of ignoring older consumers is not intentional but reflects a lack of awareness and sensitivity towards the unique needs and preferences of this demographic.
• Ageism, a form of discrimination based on age, can have profound effects on how older adults are treated and perceived in society.

Sensory Changes with Age

• Jan, a professional in the field of sensory changes, demonstrates to Mary the impact of aging on our senses.
• Taste sensitivity decreases as people age, particularly for sweet and salty flavors.
• Smell sensitivity also declines with age, but this can vary greatly among individuals.
• Visual acuity generally weakens with age, requiring adjustments in lighting and font size for readability.
• Touch sensitivity may also change, leading to increased sensitivity to certain textures or temperatures.

Adapting to Sensory Changes

• Increased use of spices and condiments on meals can make up for the decline in taste sensitivity.
• Regular exercise can help maintain cognitive function and sensory awareness.
• Dietary changes to ensure adequate hydration and nutrient intake can help support overall health and sensory function.
• Regular check-ups with healthcare professionals can address any age-related sensory changes and provide appropriate interventions.

Enhancing Sensory Experiences

• Aromatic candles or diffusers can help enhance the sense of smell during winter.
• Different seasonings and spices can be used to enhance food flavor, rather than relying solely on sugar for those with impaired taste.
• Nutritional supplements can complement dietary intake to ensure adequate nutrient levels.
• Regular dental checkups are vital for maintaining oral health and ensuring taste buds function optimally.

Food Presentation and Enjoyment

• Visually appealing food can contribute to a more pleasant dining experience, as people rely on visual cues to enhance their perception of flavor.
• Eating with other people can enhance food enjoyment by fostering social interaction and creating a more positive atmosphere.

Protecting Taste Buds

• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is crucial to protect taste buds from damage and ensure optimal taste perception.

Mary's Best Friend

• Mary's best friend is a dietitian by profession.

Issues Affecting Food Choices

• Age-related changes in taste and smell can influence older adults' food preferences.
• Dietary restrictions and allergies may also impact food choices.
• Limited mobility and access to transportation can restrict options for dining out or obtaining groceries.
• Financial constraints can affect food choices as well.

Mahatma Gandhi's Quote and Customer Service

• Mahatma Gandhi's quote emphasizes the importance of treating customers with respect and offering them personalized service.
• Understanding the diverse needs and preferences of customers, especially older adults, is crucial for creating a positive and inclusive service experience.

Essential Skills for Maturing Adults

• Active listening is essential for effective communication with seniors.
• It involves paying attention to verbal and nonverbal cues, asking clarifying questions, and demonstrating empathy.

This quiz is designed for professionals and businesses focused on serving older adults. It covers essential topics such as adapting to sensory changes, effective communication, and combatting ageism. Enhance your understanding of how to support the needs of mature clientele with practical examples and actionable tips.