A medical assistant is explaining a new medication regimen to an 82-year-old patient who appears confused by the information. Which action would best help the assistant improve the patient's understanding during the visit?
Suggest that the patient bring a relative to the next appointment so the information can be explained to them instead.
Provide written instructions in technical language and small font so the patient can review them later.
Use plain language supported by pictures or printed diagrams that illustrate the key points.
Speak more loudly and repeat the same medical terminology until the patient indicates agreement.
Older adults often have slower information-processing speed and may have sensory or cognitive changes. Using plain, non-technical language together with charts, pictures, or large-print handouts breaks complex instructions into concrete, memorable elements and has been shown to improve comprehension and adherence. Simply speaking louder, rushing, or delegating the explanation to someone else does not address the patient's immediate need to understand the material.
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