Speech, Language, Voice and Swallowing Problems of Individuals Who Are Over 65 From Three Different Perspectives: 65+ Individuals, Caregivers and Doctors

Abstract

Purpose: This research aims to identify the problems which are experienced by individuals who are over 65 years old about language, speech, language, voice and swallowing. It is also intended to determine the opinions of doctors, caregivers about these problems and compare the opinions of these three different groups. Method: The study was conducted with 3 different participant groups; aged 65 and over individuals, doctors and caregivers. Each group had 25 participants, in total 75. The data was obtained through face-to face interviews. Three equivalent interview questions prepared by the researches were used as data collection tool in the study. Descriptive and situational analysis were conducted. Results: The participants who were aged 65 and over stated that they were satisfied with their speech and they did not have a hearing problem that affected their communications. It was also found that they stated that their voices did not change compared to the past. The caregivers stated that the most common problems related to communication attempts were hearing problems and memory impairments. The doctors also gave the same answers. They also stated that people 65 years and older were unable to express themselves effectively from time to time and this situation made the examination process harder for them. Conclusion: The findings showed consistency with the literature findings. Although most of the findings related to 65+ individuals’ opinions were consistent with the literature, there were not with doctors’ and caregivers’. It shows that three groups should have some awareness about the problems which may be experienced during the aging process to detect possible disorders early, make the communication process smooth and have an effective treatment period.