Introducing words that will delight elderly people
What kind of words do you think make older adults happy?
When working in a senior care facility, the most important thing is communication with the residents.
If communication goes smoothly, it’s easier to build trust with them.
Trust is something that develops over a long period of time, but if you work in a care facility, it’s something you’ll want to acquire quickly.
This time, for those who struggle with communicating with older adults, we’ll introduce words and phrases that make them happy.
Please use this article as a reference and enjoy communicating with older adults.
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- [For Seniors] Tips for Birthday Messages They’ll Love
- Conversations Made Easy! A Collection of Topics That Elderly People Enjoy
- Words useful for conversations with elderly people. Words that were used in the past.
- [For Seniors] Conversation starters that help you chat: engaging questions and topics to spark lively talks
- For Seniors: Fun and Lively Exercise Recreation
- Fun, engaging topics for conversations with older adults!
- [For Seniors] Guaranteed to Liven Things Up! A Collection of Brain Training Activities That Will Spark Laughter
- [For seniors] Turn negatives into positives: Ways to interact that inspire motivation
- [For Seniors] Lively Wordplay Game: Fun Recreation for Elderly Care
- Interesting Omikuji Message Ideas for Seniors
- Recommended fun performances that will appeal to elderly people
Introducing phrases that will delight elderly people (1–10)
Congratulations
We also offer words of congratulations on birthdays, don’t we? When people around them say it, many seniors can’t help but smile, right? By the way, it’s perfectly fine to say “Congratulations” on Respect for the Aged Day as well.
That day is meant to honor the elderly who have contributed to society over many years and to celebrate longevity.
Since it’s a day to celebrate having lived a long life, go ahead and say “Congratulations.” You can also say it on other happy occasions, like when a grandchild is born.
If you’re someone who makes them feel happy and cherished, you’ll earn the trust of older adults.
That’s lovely.
Try complimenting their craft recreation pieces or the clothes they’re wearing.
Even a simple “That’s lovely” can make older adults feel happy and more confident.
Being recognized by others boosts their sense of self-worth.
Many older adults carry worries about the future, illnesses, or things they can no longer do.
Hearing affirming words about themselves helps ease those anxieties and lightens their emotional burden.
It also supports them in leading a more vibrant, authentic life.
I’m happy.
When people express gratitude for what you’ve done, it makes older adults happy too.
The phrase “I’m happy” is interesting because when someone says it to you, it makes you feel happy as well.
Due to the effects of dementia and physical conditions, older adults are often gradually able to do fewer things.
Some may feel, “I’m not useful.” But what if someone smiles and says, “I’m happy”? It could help older adults feel more confident and give them energy for daily life.
Be sure to add “Thank you” as well, and convey your appreciation from the heart.
Introducing words that will delight elderly people (11–20)
As expected.
“Sasuga desu ne” is a phrase you can use during conversation or when you see someone’s impressive side.
For example, if an older adult knows difficult words or kanji, or when you learn about their former accomplishments, be sure to say it.
Some older adults may feel anxious—feeling like “I can’t do what I used to” or “I’ve lost the abilities I had.” Saying “Sasuga desu ne” can help them regain confidence and boost lowered self-esteem.
I understand well.
The phrase “I understand” plays an important role when talking with older adults.
It conveys that you’re empathizing with their feelings and respecting their experiences.
Since older adults value their own life experiences, being understood can give them a sense of reassurance.
Showing compassion helps build trust and leads to smoother communication.
What matters is expressing genuine empathy rather than using formulaic words.
When you speak gently, your words will resonate with older adults.
Please stay healthy forever.
The phrase “Please stay healthy forever” carries deep respect and compassion for older adults.
Hearing it will surely warm the heart.
As caregivers, it’s important that we honor the dignity of older adults while supporting their independence.
If something is truly difficult for them, let’s step in with gentle, unobtrusive assistance.
By enjoying conversations and building trust, we can provide better care.
Let’s cherish the time we can spend together with smiles.
That’s cool.
The phrase “You look cool” is a wonderful way to bring out the charm of older adults.
With their wealth of life experience, older people show us cool sides of themselves in many situations.
When you’re truly moved by such moments, that’s the time to say, “You look cool.” They’ll surely be pleased.
These words can also boost their confidence.
So when you interact with older adults, try to notice their good qualities and say, “You look cool.” It will create a lovely moment of heartfelt connection.