Communication With Older Adults and Family Members

This interactive course introduces home health aides to effective communication with older adults and their families. Participants will explore verbal and nonverbal techniques, including those for individuals with sensory or cognitive impairments, and how to recognize and report communication concerns to the supervisory care team. This course was written to align with the training requirements under §484.80 for home health aide education.

Course Objectives

1. Demonstrate effective communication techniques (verbal and nonverbal) tailored to older adults, including those with sensory or cognitive impairments
2. Understand family dynamics and apply strategies for empathetic, professional communication with patients’ loved ones
3. Identify and address communication barriers related to cognitive or sensory impairments
4. Respond appropriately during difficult conversations, respecting the scope of practice and emotional sensitivity
5. Recognize the aide’s role in observing and reporting communication concerns to the supervisory care team

This course was written in alignment with the CMS Conditions of Participation for Home Health: 42 CFR §484.80 (Home Health Aide Services) training expectations relevant to aide services.

• https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-G/part-484/subpart-B/section-484.80

Estimated Runtime: 25 minutes

Reviewed and approved by
Kim Tate, RN, BSN

NOTE: This course is not a substitute for legal advice for any individual provider or situation. Always consult your company’s legal or compliance personnel with any questions or concerns related to this subject matter.