Typical Mistakes People Do When Interacting with Elderly
Many people have trouble communicating with older people. People sometimes don’t know what to say or what to do when they are around seniors which can cause less effective interaction with them. Here are some of the common mistakes most people make when communicating with elderly.
Lack of Respect
It is crucial to show respect when communicating with elderly. Elders have very sensitive feelings even though they are not that impulsive. Acknowledging them as wiser can help achieve an effective communication with them. One of the most common things people do that most elders hate is when they are being patronized or being given advice. Just listen and respect their views and allow them to share their life experiences.
Lack of Patience
Patience is essential when interacting with older people. Their movements are slower than the younger generation and it may take more time for them to process and understand the message given. Also, language changes really fast including the language hacks such as OMG, YOLO or IRL and therefore explanation might be needed. Their memory may not be as sharp as before, so if a person tries to ask something about their younger days they may need a couple more minutes to remember. However, regardless of the age they can still understand body language. They know when a person is being impatient.
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Generation Gap
Misconceptions about generation gap is another mistake most people do. The stereotypical idea that older people can’t understand the issue because of the age differences. When people are trying to communicate with elderly, conciseness and openness will make easier things easier.
Different Treatment
Growing old causes people to have some disabilities or health issues. Some seniors are deaf, suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s but not all. When communicating with old people, there is no reason to speak loud because not all of them are deaf. Also, modulating voices to high pitches and baby-like sounds are insulting to them. Use a normal and regular toned voice when speaking with elders.
Adjustment Issues
Adjustment periods for older people will become longer as part of the aging process. It may take awhile for seniors to get accustomed to things like the sudden change of weather. Moreover, be more attentive to the changes that come along and adjust the message accordingly in order to have an efficient way in interacting with elderly.
Knowledge
Elders are known to be wise. They have lived for more than 60+ years and their life experiences are incomparable to the young ones. They can teach and provide a valuable advice on how to live and survive life. To have a better communication and understanding with the seniors, people must learn to stop and listen to them from time to time.