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Aged Care Association: Lesson series

Webinar: Enhancing communication and cultural competence in older adults

This webinar delved into the challenges and solutions for improving non-verbal communication with older adults, and the role cultural competence plays in bridging these gaps for IQNs. Throughout the session, we explorde key areas that contribute to effective communication and provide actionable insights for enhancing interactions.

Presenter Kathy Kirby (Director and Registered Nurse, Thrive Aged Care Consultants)
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Why is this course important

Effective communication is fundamental to delivering safe, person-centred care for older adults. Age-related changes in hearing, vision, cognition, and speech can make non-verbal communication especially important. At the same time, cultural differences can influence how people express themselves, interpret gestures, and build trust with healthcare professionals.

For Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQNs), developing cultural competence alongside strong communication skills helps reduce misunderstandings, improve patient experiences, strengthen therapeutic relationships, and support better health outcomes. By understanding and adapting to each older adult's individual communication needs and cultural background, nurses can provide more respectful, inclusive, and high-quality care.

Course Lessons