Elderspeak from the perspective of hospitalised geriatric patients-insights from a cross-sectional study using a mixed-methods design.

BACKGROUND

Elderspeak as a form of ageism is a simplified and patronising communication style characterised by diminutives, collective pronouns and exaggerated prosody. In healthcare, elderspeak can affect the physical and mental health of older patients. Understanding the patient's perspective is essential for developing respectful and dignified communication strategies in contact with older patients.

METHODS

Video vignettes were used to analyse N = 45 geriatric patients' perception of elderspeak compared to neutral language in a mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively and using Wilcoxon test and mixed models, qualitative data were categorised inductively by Mayring.

RESULTS

All patients recognised elderspeak; 88.9% prefer neutral language over elderspeak. Elderspeak appears less professional and polite; qualitative responses indicate that elderspeak goes against normative communication, lacks respect and feels less warm or personal. In addition to linguistic form, contextual factors such as the interpersonal relationship also appear to be important for preferred communication.

CONCLUSION

Geriatric patients recognize elderspeak as an unprofessional an non-normative form of communication that is widely disliked, although contextual factors and personal preference play a role. Overall, communication with patient is an important tool to foster appropriate health behavior and well-being. Future research and practice should aim to reduce elderspeak to avoid potentially negative effects on the well-being and health of older people.