Improving Healthcare Communication for Late-Deafened Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Kohl Gianna, Heniff Erin, Dye Maya, Rogers Wendy
Primary Institution: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Hypothesis
Understanding the communication challenges faced by late-deafened older adults is essential for improving healthcare interactions.
Conclusion
Effective communication strategies can enhance patient care for late-deafened older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Late-deafened older adults face unique communication challenges in healthcare.
- The most difficult healthcare activity for participants was attending appointments.
- Communication barriers included insufficient visual cues and unclear speech.
- Response strategies included using assistive technology and educating healthcare providers.
Takeaway
Older adults who lost their hearing later in life have a hard time talking to doctors, but there are ways to help them communicate better.
Methodology
Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews, followed by content analysis of the responses.
Limitations
The study may not cover all communication challenges faced by late-deafened older adults in different healthcare settings.
Participant Demographics
Participants were late-deafened adults aged 60 to 80, with a mean age of 69.4 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website