Talk to older people as equals, says Costa del Sol expat Steve

Steve, a long-time expat living in Costa del Sol, is urging everyone to treat older individuals with respect and as equals in conversation. After nearly three decades in the area, he has observed how older people are often disrespected and seen as having "little or no value". He says that older individuals have a wealth of knowledge gathered through a lifetime of experience and often enjoy sharing their stories.

Steve's first tip for speaking to older people is to listen carefully, give them your full attention, and avoid interrupting. He advises speaking in a calm, clear voice and never talking down to them, as it is highly disrespectful. Patience is also key - everyone needs time to process information at their own pace, so don't rush them. Eye contact is essential, as it shows respect and genuine interest in what they are saying.

Steve suggests keeping language simple and asking open-ended questions (who, what, where, why, how) rather than ones that only require a 'yes' or 'no' answer. This encourages a more engaging conversation. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of showing empathy, as understanding their feelings and concerns is crucial for building a connection.

Non-verbal cues are also important. Watch an older person's posture and facial expressions, as these can often convey more than words. Finally, Steve stresses that it's essential to respect an older person's independence, knowledge, and life experiences. Speak to them as equals, involve them in decisions, and never make assumptions based solely on age.

Health organizations, such as the US National Institute on Aging and the World Health Organization, agree with Steve's advice. They recommend not hurrying older individuals, avoiding baby talk, and providing extra time and eye contact during conversations.