What are the best ways to empower older adults in patient-centered care?

2 Collaborate and coordinate

Another way to empower older adults in patient-centered care is to collaborate and coordinate with them and their caregivers, family members, and other health professionals. Older adults may have multiple providers, medications, and treatments, which can create confusion and inconsistency. By working as a team, you can ensure that the care plan is aligned with the older adult's goals and preferences, and that everyone is on the same page. You can also help the older adult and their caregivers navigate the health system, access resources, and overcome barriers.

3 Educate and inform

A third way to empower older adults in patient-centered care is to educate and inform them and their caregivers about their health conditions, treatments, and options. Older adults may have low health literacy, cognitive impairment, or sensory loss, which can affect their ability to understand and follow instructions. By using clear, simple, and respectful language, providing written materials, and checking for comprehension, you can help them make informed choices and manage their own care. You can also encourage them to ask questions, seek second opinions, and advocate for themselves.

4 Support and empower

A fourth way to empower older adults in patient-centered care is to support and empower them and their caregivers to cope with the challenges and changes that come with aging. Older adults may experience loss of function, independence, identity, and social roles, which can affect their self-esteem, mood, and quality of life. By providing emotional support, validation, and encouragement, you can help them maintain their dignity and sense of control. You can also help them access support groups, counseling, and other services that can enhance their well-being.

5 Respect and honor

A fifth way to empower older adults in patient-centered care is to respect and honor their diversity, culture, and preferences. Older adults may have different backgrounds, beliefs, values, and traditions than you or other providers, and they may have specific wishes for their end-of-life care. By being culturally sensitive, inclusive, and respectful, you can honor their identity and dignity, and avoid imposing your own assumptions or biases. You can also ask them about their advance directives, palliative care, and hospice options, and support their decisions.

6 Engage and involve

A sixth way to empower older adults in patient-centered care is to engage and involve them and their caregivers in quality improvement and research activities. Older adults may have valuable insights, feedback, and experiences that can help improve the quality and safety of care, and they may want to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and innovation. By inviting them to participate in surveys, focus groups, advisory councils, or clinical trials, you can show that you value their voice and perspective, and help them make a difference.