We do not need to raise our volume and use a higher pitched voice when dealing with elderly confused patients. All it does is make things worse. Their brains are not going to suddenly understand if only we speak louder and louder and higher and higher. However, what they perceive as our "agitation" (louder and higher voices) does increase their agitation.
I am no kind of hearing expert but have been taught that with age-related hearing loss (presbycusis), the hearing loss often begins with higher frequency sounds anyway. So all the "honeeeeey, do you need to peeeeee?" yelling that we tend to do is not helping anything.
I have had very good response to getting close and speaking in a lower, almost quiet but firm tone. It seems to have a calming, comforting effect. Using preferred names helps.
It may sound silly but the above scenario is heart-breaking every time I witness it. I know there is an insurmountable pile of things on our plate, but this is such a simple thing that we can do better. It actually takes less energy than the alternative.
These are not our honeys, they aren't two years old and their life isn't a carnival ride.
Sorry, hitting a little close to home. I am asking everyone to give it some thought, try to change your practice if you are one of the well-meaning guilty, and gently share with newer peers who may be trying really hard but are genuinely ignorant all the same.
