Lauren Bridgstock – Is ‘elderspeak’ always inappropriate?
Channel: Applied Cognition Technology and Interaction Group
Date: 2022-04-06

Is ‘elderspeak’ always inappropriate? An empirical investigation of the use of elderspeak in dementia care.

Elderspeak is a type of communication often used towards older people, particularly those living with dementia. It involves features such as high tone/pitch, simplified sentences/grammar, and terms of endearment. There is mixed evidence regarding how people may receive and respond to elderspeak. Some research suggests that it may be considered inappropriate and so may lead to negative reactions. Other research suggests that some individuals could perceive it as positive (e.g., if it appears more friendly, or aids task completion in care). It is likely that these perceptions may be influenced by the context of the situation. My project aims to establish where and when elderspeak is used towards people living with dementia (PLWD) in acute hospital settings (where communication is known to be difficult between healthcare staff and PLWD). It will then aim to establish how different contexts influence the reactions of PLWD. These aims will be accomplished by analysing video data of participants using conversation analysis, a method which examines real-life interactions in extreme detail. This information will contribute to the empirical literature and may aid the development of future training resources, leading to improvements in the quality of care given to PLWD in hospitals environments.