The influence of older patient-physician communication on health and health-related outcomes

Clin Geriatr Med. 2000 Feb;16(1):25-36, vii-viii. doi: 10.1016/s0749-0690(05)70005-7.

Abstract

Effective patient-physician communication significantly influences health outcomes of older patients. For example, concordance between patient and physician expectations and patient participation in the decision-making process affects older patients. Communication is also linked to patient recall, adherence, and satisfaction. Furthermore, communication impacts emotional and physical outcomes of older patients, although evidence of improved physical outcomes remains under-investigated in this population. Dimensions of communication, such as continuity of relationship, seem to be important in decreasing hospitalization of older patients. This article explores the link between communication and health care outcomes in the older population.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Canada
  • Communication
  • Female
  • Health Status*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care*
  • Patient Participation
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Physician-Patient Relations*