Mandated face mask use for health care providers, such as during the Covid-19 pandemic, creates an additional communication barrier for older adults with cognitive, communication, and hearing challenges. Face masks can soften a speaker’s voice, conceal vocal tone, and hide facial expressions that relay essential non-verbal information. An inability to understand health care information or words of support can lead to frustration, anxiety, and decreased quality of life. This article reviews current research, provides clinical examples, and highlights communication strategies, supports (i.e., written, gestural, pictures), and modifications to personal protective equipment that health care providers can implement, singly or combined, to improve communication with older adults. 

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https://journals.healio.com/doi/10.3928/00989134-20201012-02

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Team Members as Authors

Members of the the PELI Team who contributed to this publication.

Kelly Knollman-Porter, Ph.D, CCC-SLP

Avatar for Kenzie Schmitz

Kenzie Schmitz

Robert H. and Nancy J. Blayney Endowed Assistant Professor in the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology

Kelly Knollman-Porter, Ph.D, CCC-SLP

Vanessa Burshnic-Neal, Ph.D, CCC-SLP

Avatar for Kenzie Schmitz

Kenzie Schmitz

Program Manager, “Communication Disorders: Eliminating Gaps in Treatment for Rural Veterans”

Vanessa Burshnic-Neal, Ph.D, CCC-SLP