We're all familiar with the sing-song way we speak to toddlers. This same "baby talk" is often used with older adults. It's known as "elderspeak," and it's more common than you might think. The problem is that it can harm the well-being of older people.
Elderspeak is a simplified, exaggerated way of speaking that resembles baby talk. It often stems from attitudes and assumptions about the capabilities of older adults, especially those showing signs of cognitive or functional decline.
What is the future of elderspeak? Growth! With 10,000 American baby boomers turning 65 every day until December 31, 2029, you can see the potential is enormous.
But what specifically leads us to slip into this patronizing communication style?
Assumptions, assumptions: Sometimes we might believe that we need to speak slowly and exaggerate our words to effectively communicate with older people (thinking, "That's how my parents talked to their parents"). Alternatively, we might become frustrated with a loved one's untreated hearing loss. In either case, we adjust our speech to what we assume an older person can understand.
The problem, as the research shows, is that elderspeak does more harm than good.
Why it matters
Elderspeak reduces comprehension in older adults, increases resistance to care in those with dementia, and is viewed as disrespectful. By understanding and avoiding this harmful communication style, we can better support the cognitive health and dignity of our aging loved ones.
What the research says
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A study by Shaw, Gordon, and Williams found the exaggerated intonation patterns, rhythm, and sounds typical of elderspeak reduce comprehension in older adults.
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A three-year study by Frank Lin's team at Johns Hopkins University showed people with hearing loss who received hearing aids experienced significant improvement in hearing and communication abilities, slowing cognitive decline compared to those who only received health education. The study involved nearly 1,000 participants aged 70 to 84 with substantial hearing loss.
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In contrast, other research confirmed that elderspeak can have serious consequences for those living with dementia. The study found that elderspeak increases the likelihood of resistance to care, reflecting the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.
What to do
Given this evidence of negative effects from elderspeak, we should adjust how we communicate with older loved ones. Here are some recommendations:
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Be aware of how you speak to older people, especially those with hearing loss. Don’t oversimplify what you’re saying.
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Be respectful. We all value being respected regardless of age.
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Encourage hearing aid use. If you think a loved one would benefit from hearing aids, help them get a hearing screening. Hearing aids are a proven way to reduce the risk of dementia and make socializing possible, which helps keep communication skills sharp.
Isn't some elderspeak natural?
It's understandable to subconsciously adjust your speech when interacting with someone much older or younger. However, the research shows we need to resist the assumptions driving patronizing elderspeak. With awareness and effort, we can communicate in a way that supports elder health and dignity.
The takeaway
When you treat older adults with respect, address their hearing loss, and use caring communication with them, you increase the quality of their lives and help preserve their mental health.
Healthy hearing starts here
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