Elderspeak

Elderspeak is a particular way of talking with older adults. This is similar to “baby talk” characterized by easy-to-understand words, simple sentence structure, frequent endearing terms, slow and clear enunciation, and using more closed-ended than open-ended questions. It also includes talking to the elderly person's relatives instead of speaking with the elderly person him or her self. Elderspeak acknowledges the decline of mental abilities during the old age but is seen by most as unnecessary since it may be perceived as patronizing, irritating, and/or disrespectful.