The usefulness of useless conversation: An avenue for connection and autonomy for older adults

Abstract

Conversation is at the core of human abilities. It is used to share information and to learn, but equally important is its role in linking people to one another. Often considered as superficial or useless, small talk serves an important role in helping us learn whom we wish to trust and with whom we wish to continue to engage in a relationship. Guided by linguistic and cultural norms as well as prejudices and biases, conversational partners use language and non-verbal cues to negotiate maintenance of both connection and autonomy. Unfortunately, opportunities for small talk and conversation diminish over time as older adults are faced with social isolation and loneliness. This is especially true of older adults whose communication is affected because of health reasons, or yet again, because ageist attitudes prevent them from having a voice. The chapter gives attention to small talk as a vehicle to reduce social isolation and loneliness in older adults. The chapter encourages readers to explore how conversational exchanges that, on the surface appear “useless” can, in fact, be beneficial to older adults wanting to connect while maintaining their autonomy.