Effects of Touch on Communication with Elderly Confused Clients

Authors:
  • RLRose Mary Langland
    Rose Mary Langland
  • CPCarol L Panicucci
    Carol L Panicucci
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Abstract
Effective communication is of vital importance in establishing and maintaining the nurse-client relationship through which an elderly client may be assisted in carrying out self care. In nursing, touch often has been advocated as an important affectional and communication tool. This study examined the effects on communication between the elderly confused client and the nurse when touch was combined with a verbal request. Thirty-two elderly female subjects from two mid western nursing homes randomly were assigned to experimental and control groups. All subjects were given the same verbal request, control group without touch and experimental group with a light touch on the forearm. Subjects were observed for attention (nonverbal responses), relevant verbal response, and appropriate action response. A significant increase in nonverbal responses with the use of touch was found, indicating its importance in conveying relational aspects of communication. Implications for nursing are discussed.

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