Identify impairments and age-related changes that may affect communication.
Identification should include the following impairments:
- Physical
- Cognitive
- Psychosocial
- Developmental
It should also include age-related changes across the life span, such as the following:
- Hearing loss
- Visual changes
- Memory function
- Dentation
Process/Skill Questions:
- What alternative communication skills are in place for patients with sensory impairments? Cognitive impairments?
- How can psychosocial impairments affect communication?
- How does the therapist’s approach to communication change to accommodate clients in various stages of the life span?