Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following senses are involved in communication?
Which of the following senses are involved in communication?
Approximately 70% of all information comes through the eyes.
Approximately 70% of all information comes through the eyes.
True
What are primary forms of communication?
What are primary forms of communication?
What changes occur in vision after the age of 40?
What changes occur in vision after the age of 40?
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What is presbyopia?
What is presbyopia?
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The pupillary reflex slows down around the age of 50.
The pupillary reflex slows down around the age of 50.
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What role does touch play in communication?
What role does touch play in communication?
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As a person ages, the number of individuals with sensory deficits _____ .
As a person ages, the number of individuals with sensory deficits _____ .
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Match the common visual diseases with their descriptions:
Match the common visual diseases with their descriptions:
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Study Notes
Communication
- Communication is a vital skill for interacting with the world.
- It allows individuals to express needs and desires, understand others, and negotiate challenges.
- Communication relies on both physiological and psychological processes.
Sensory Modalities in Communication
- Vision is the dominant sense, processing 70% of incoming information.
- Hearing plays a crucial role in auditory information processing.
- Touch can substitute for vision and convey emotions.
- Olfaction (smell) and gustation (taste) contribute to the sensory experience, influencing communication.
Age-Related Changes in Communication
- Sensory deficits become more prevalent with age due to age-related changes.
- These changes affect communication abilities.
Vision Changes
- Lens: Changes in color (yellowing, opaqueness) occur after age 40.
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Iris & Pupil:
- Slower pupillary reflex at age 50.
- Incomplete pupil dilation (senile miosis) at age 50.
- Reduced light accommodation (70% decrease) by age 60.
Typical Vision Problems
- Decreased visual acuity (clarity).
- Presbyopia (difficulty focusing on close objects).
- Sensitivity to light and glare.
- Senile miosis (constricted pupils).
- Poor color contrast perception.
Visual Defect Behavioral Cues
- Adjusting object distance.
- Squinting or focusing.
- Struggle with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
Common Visual Diseases
- Macular Degeneration: Affects the macula, leading to vision impairment.
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Two types of Macular Degeneration:
- Dry: Slow deterioration of macula.
- Wet: Abnormal blood vessel growth, causing leakage and scar tissue.
Hearing Changes
- Presybycusis (age-related hearing loss) is common.
- High-frequency sounds become harder to hear.
- Auditory processing speed may decline.
Hearing Loss Factors
- Genetics and environmental factors contribute (e.g., noise exposure).
- Men are more susceptible than women.
- Cigarette smoking and cardiovascular disease increase risk.
Hearing Loss Impact
- Difficulty understanding conversations, especially in noisy environments.
- Social isolation resulting from communication challenges.
- Depression and cognitive decline due to social withdrawal.
Hearing Loss Management
- Hearing aids are helpful for managing hearing loss.
- Assistive listening devices, like captioning, improve communication.
- Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent further decline.
Speech Changes
- Speech changes can be a consequence of age-related changes and medical conditions.
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Causes:
- Decreased lung capacity.
- Weakness in tongue and facial muscles.
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Effects:
- Reduced volume, slower speaking rate.
- slurred speech.
- Difficulties with articulation and pronunciation.
- Speech therapy can be helpful.
Physical Changes and Communication
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Changes in mobility:
- Decreased range of motion.
- Reduced strength and coordination.
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Impact:
- Difficulty navigating environments.
- Challenges with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
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Solutions:
- Assistive devices (walkers, canes, wheelchairs).
- Home modifications for safety and accessibility.
Psychological Changes and Communication
- Cognitive decline can significantly affect communication.
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Common issues:
- Memory problems.
- Difficulty with attention and concentration.
- Decreased self-awareness.
- Challenges with organization and reasoning.
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Impact:
- Misunderstandings and frustrations.
- Difficulty following conversations.
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Strategies:
- Patience and clear communication.
- Breaking down information into smaller chunks.
- Repetition of key points for reinforcement.
Disability and Communication
- Disabilities, including sensory impairments, significantly impact communication.
- Individuals with disabilities may require:
- Visual aids (large print, Braille).
- Assistive listening devices.
- Sign language interpreters for hearing-impaired individuals.
- Alternative communication methods (e.g., picture exchange systems).
Guidelines for Effective Communication with Older Adults
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Respect their pace:
- Allow them to process information.
- Encourage them to ask questions.
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Adapt to their needs:
- Use visual aids.
- Speak clearly and slowly.
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Promote a positive environment:
- Maintain a calm and non-threatening atmosphere.
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Be patient and compassionate:
- Older adults may experience challenges with communication.
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Utilize simple language and short sentences:
- Avoid jargon and technical terms.
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Encourage active listening:
- Pay attention to the message being conveyed.
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Use a supportive and validating tone:
- Acknowledge their feelings and concerns.
Communication Strategies
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Active Listening:
- Pay close attention and demonstrate understanding.
- Maintain eye contact and use nonverbal cues.
- Ask clarifying questions to ensure comprehension.
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Empathy:
- Try to understand the individual’s perspective.
- Respond with sensitivity and compassion.
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Respect and Dignity:
- Treat all individuals respectfully, regardless of their communication abilities.
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Professionalism:
- Maintain a professional demeanor and avoid disrespectful language or behavior.
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