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In caring for the elderly, effective communication is much more than an exchange of words; it is a bridge to understanding their emotions and needs. This was demonstrated by a group of Hispanic women from New Bedford during a training course, where they learned the importance of this resource in providing care for the elderly.
The course not only taught them practical health skills, such as first aid, but also emphasized the importance of proper care from a communication perspective. “It is essential to establish communication with the patient — knowing how they are, how they slept, or if they took their medicine,” explained Magalis Troncoso, the students’ trainer.
Troncoso added that many Spanish-speaking older adults feel more valued and understood when they are cared for in their native language. “This job requires a lot of patience and love, and when caregivers speak the same language, the patient appreciates it,” concluded Troncoso, highlighting the importance of warm and understanding interactions that help improve the quality of life for older adults.
Nine caregivers from New Bedford have just graduated, and it is expected that new student positions will be opened to offer support in Spanish, addressing an important gap in the city while strengthening cultural connections.
Email Gerardo Beltrán Salinas at gerardo@newbedfordlight.org
