Last week we explored Ed Pittock’s “Nine to Thrive” brochure. This week I want to highlight his Number 6, “Use plain language; go the extra mile in your communications.” I love these tips because as you read them you’ll realize they are just great tips about communicating in general.

• Reduce background noises.

• Before you speak, make sure you have the attention of the person who is hard of hearing.

• Face the listener directly.

• Lower the pitch of your voice, but still speak in a normal tone.

• Make sure the person can see your face as you speak.

• Have the listener repeat the message so you know your words are understood.

• Consider writing out notes from the meeting and mailing them to the client afterward.

Ed says that about a third of American older than 60 have hearing problems; and half of people 85 and older have hearing loss. That’s the demographic of the end of life clientele. Another tip that I learned right out of Mortuary School was, when meeting with a family put your pen down every time they speak. It reminds you to listen and not be in a rush.

For more information on Ed Pittock and the Society of Senior Advisors visit www.society-csa.com.