Communication Skills for Working with Elders

Book excerpt: ìDr. Dreherís book is a concise and highly readable guide to developing and enhancing oneís communication skills for the betterment of the elderly personís quality of life... [It] clearly has a place on the bookshelf of every layman and professional alike who interacts with elderly people.î - Gerontology and Geriatrics Education, about the first edition ì...extremely useful as a teaching tool.î - Geriatric Nursing, about the first edition This popular text provides practical guidelines for effective interaction with the elderly and presents techniques for overcoming common communication problems and disorders common among elders. New to this second edition are chapters addressing assisted living, the use of computers for communication, the ìBoomers,î and new approaches for dealing with emotional strains of anxiety and depression, among others. Each chapter concludes with exercises and activities designed to help readers practice and hone their skills. This book is ideal for courses in departments of gerontology, social work, nursing, and communication.