To improve discharge teaching comprehension in an older adult, which approach is most effective?

• A. Use simple language and short sentences
• B. Use medical jargon to convey specifics
• C. Speak quickly to finish early
• D. Provide only written materials

Answer: (A)

Plain language and short sentences are most effective for discharge teaching with older adults. When instructions are written in simple terms and brief statements, it’s easier for someone who may have hearing, memory, or health-literacy challenges to understand and remember what to do after leaving care. Using plain language reduces cognitive load and minimizes the chance of misinterpretation, making it more likely they’ll follow through. It’s also helpful to pause for questions and use a teach-back approach, asking the patient to restate the instructions in their own words to confirm understanding. The other options tend to hinder comprehension: medical jargon can confuse, speaking quickly doesn’t give time to process, and relying only on written materials may exclude those who benefit from verbal explanation or have reading difficulties.