NCLEX · Aging and Older Adults

What is a general communication adaptation a nurse may use for an older adult who has mild hearing changes?

Correct answer

Face the client, speak clearly at a moderate pace, reduce background noise, and confirm understanding

  1. A Shout loudly from across the room
  2. B Face the client, speak clearly at a moderate pace, reduce background noise, and confirm understanding
  3. C Avoid speaking to the client
  4. D Use only written notes regardless of the client's literacy

Why this is the answer

For an older adult with mild hearing changes, helpful general communication adaptations include facing the client so they can see your face, speaking clearly at a normal-to-slightly-slower pace and lower pitch, reducing background noise, and confirming the client understood. Shouting can distort speech and seem disrespectful, avoiding speaking isolates the client, and relying solely on written notes ignores the individual's needs and literacy. Adapting communication to sensory changes supports effective, respectful care. Understanding these communication adaptations for older adults is a standard health-promotion concept. (Verify against current NCLEX prep materials.)
Source: NCLEX-PN Health Promotion — Communication with Older Adults