A new national report is helping healthcare professionals strengthen one of the most important tools in care delivery—effective communication with older adults.

According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, healthcare providers are encouraged to adopt communication strategies tailored to the unique needs, experiences, and challenges of older populations.

Why Communication Matters in Senior Care

For older adults—especially those in long-term and post-acute settings—clear, empathetic communication can directly influence outcomes. Misunderstandings can lead to medication errors, reduced adherence, and increased anxiety, while trust and clarity improve satisfaction, engagement, and health literacy.

Key Recommendations From the Report

1. Simplify and Personalize Information
   Providers should use plain language, avoid jargon, and tailor discussions to the individual’s cognitive and sensory abilities. Visual aids, written summaries, and teach-back methods can reinforce understanding.
2. Build Trust Through Respect and Relationship
   Older adults often value relational communication—listening attentively, showing empathy, and maintaining eye contact. Small gestures that demonstrate respect can make patients feel seen and valued.
3. Address Hearing and Vision Barriers
   Accommodations such as well-lit spaces, amplified audio devices, and clear print materials can significantly enhance comprehension for individuals with sensory limitations.
4. Use Technology Thoughtfully
   Digital health tools should supplement, not replace, human interaction. When using telehealth or digital systems, clinicians should ensure older adults are comfortable and capable of navigating them—or provide support when needed.
5. Encourage Shared Decision-Making
   Involving older adults in their own care discussions fosters autonomy, engagement, and better adherence. Providers should allow time for questions and validate understanding before moving forward.

What This Means for Senior Care Providers

For clinicians and operators in long-term and senior living communities, these recommendations underscore the role of communication in quality improvement. Training staff in evidence-based communication practices can improve safety, medication adherence, and patient satisfaction—while reducing preventable readmissions and frustration for both residents and caregivers.

At Forum, we know that good care starts with good communication—between providers, pharmacists, and residents. Every medication, every conversation, every decision matters.