Communication Difficulties in Hospitalized Older Adults with Dementia

Abstract

Dementia adversely affects patients' receptive and expressive communication abilities, making it more difficult for nurses to assess their needs and provide necessary care. Communication Difficulties: Assessment and Interventions in Hospitalized Older Adults with Dementia outlines questions nurses can use to assess the nature and severity of language deficits, which vary greatly from patient to patient and over the course of the disease. Best-practice techniques for tailoring communication to each patient's abilities are also discussed. For a free online video demonstrating the use of these approaches, go to: (http://links.lww.com/A236).

Experience of anaesthesia nurses of perioperative communication in hip fracture patients with dementia

“…The study participants focused on the important initial encounter with the patient and how to maintain a sound connection throughout the procedure and the immediate postoperative period. Several studies, which corroborate the present one, point out the significance of meaningful communication and collaboration with such patients , and this is further validated by the fact that nursing without such communication can create general dissatisfaction among patients, proxies, healthcare personnel. Many ethical problems seem to arise simultaneously .…”

“…The dialog can be seen as a way for the patient to understand his or her current reality. This, of course, demands experience and patience, especially in aggressive patients, but will probably contribute to improved well‐being of the patient . According to Rudolfsson et al.…”

Mistaken Identity

“…Neonates and small children are unable to identify themselves to providers, and family members are not always present to assist in this process 6 . Communication difficulties caused by a patient's dementia, 7 impaired cognition from critical illness or medication, or developmental problems can increase the risk of misidentification. This case highlights the effect of language barriers on the potential for identification errors.…”

Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Challenges and Opportunities for Improved Patient Outcomes

“…Therefore, eating habits alone do not provide an accurate assessment of nausea. Older patients may require a slightly different approach because their expectations may differ from younger patients, they often have comorbidities, and some may have cognitive difficulties (Miller, 2008). Overall, the consensus was that a blanket approach does not produce the best clinical outcomes and that each patient has to be considered as an individual.…”