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Questions and Answers
Which of the following senses are involved in communication?
Approximately 70% of all information comes through the eyes.
True
What are primary forms of communication?
What changes occur in vision after the age of 40?
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What is presbyopia?
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The pupillary reflex slows down around the age of 50.
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What role does touch play in communication?
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As a person ages, the number of individuals with sensory deficits _____ .
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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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