ECR: Communication key to better imaging of elderly patients

Imaging elderly patients presents unique challenges, but radiologists can be proactive in making procedures for this population easier, according to a talk given at ECR 2024. In his presentation, Uffe LW Jakobsen from UCL University College in Odense, Denmark, outlined strategies for radiologists to better communicate with elderly patients by treating them like any other patient and forming relationships with them. “Only then can communicate and conduct an examination where we take the appropriate considerations into account without depriving them of their independence and without compromising image quality,” Jakobsen said. Medical professionals may fall into a tendency to “talk down” toward elderly patients, a phenomenon called elderspeak. Elderspeak is characterized by slow, clear speech with a higher volume or voice pitch, baby talk, the use of intimate pet names such as “darling” or “sweetheart,” and targeted questions using “we” language. “This can be perceived as condescending and the feeling of the patient being dependent on others,” Jakobsen said. “This can result in a sense of incompetence and low self-esteem.” He said that steps radiologists can take include using firm communication and allowing for the patient to act independently, creating an environment for patient autonomy.Uffe Jakobsen from UCL University College in Denmark gives a presentation at ECR 2024 explaining how radiologists can better communicate with elderly patients....
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