Page 2 - CC Winter Staff Newsletter_June 2019_FINAL

2 COLOURS OF CRANBROOK, WINTER 2019

Communicating with Our Residents

For nurses and carers in the aged care industry, the ability to communicate is a vital skill and
an important part of the job. To be able to communicate with a variety of people from varying
educational, cultural and social backgrounds and to do so in an effective, caring and professional
manner when communicating with residents and families, is integral. Here are ten practical tips.

7. Don’t Forget Other Methods
of Communication
There are other skills, in addition to speaking and
listening that you can work on, including reading,
writing and technology-based communication.
Loving and supportive communication does not need
to revolve around words. Simply being there, holding
hands, smiling and sharing meaningful eye contact
and showing physical affection are all great ways to
demonstrate respect, concern and support.

1. Speak Slowly and Clearly, Not Loudly 8. Keeping Working at It
Certain words can sound similar if spoken quickly, When communicating with others, especially
so it is important to speak slowly and clearly. children or older persons, we do not have only one
When communicating with those, especially older chance to say things – it doesn’t have to be perfect.
persons, you may be inclined to raise your voice, Communication evolves and there are nearly always
however it is more effective to speak slowly and other opportunities to talk. Be realistic in your
clearly, and not loudly. expectations – set realistic goals for communication
and be patient, yet stay motivated to create even
2. Avoid Using Slang
small changes.
Avoid using either slang or bigger and more complex
words as better communication involves using plain 9. Give Them Time
clear language.
One of the most important things to consider
3. Cater to Who you are Speaking With when talking with older people, is time.
Be aware of who you are speaking with. What you If you display any impatience or stress, you’re
say to a doctor or colleague would be different to likely to shut them down. Dedicate the necessary
what you would say to a resident and their family. time to talk properly to an older person, and open
the communication channel. Be mindful that some
4. Stop and Listen older persons are afraid to speak out because they
Remember that communication is a two-way street. don’t want to bother you or be seen as someone
To be able to stop and listen actively and ethically is who is a complainer. Some may not have the mental
vital, so listen carefully to what is being said. capacity to talk to you or fully express themselves
immediately. It is only over time that you will get the
5. Use Body Language whole story.
Use your body language – your hands, face and
posture to reflect what your message is. A lot of 10. Explain Things Simply
communication is the way your body is communicating As with children, it is best to avoid medical jargon
rather than purely what is being said. when speaking with older people. Medical jargon
isn’t really a good way to talk to any resident, but
6. Learn a Foreign Language it is detrimental when speaking with older persons.
Learning a new language can actually put you However, you don’t want to come across as
in better touch with your native tongue and can condescending, either. It is a fine line to walk and you
open your eyes to the way you use the words need to base your language on the questions and
you already know. cognitive ability of the resident you are speaking with.