What principle should guide the teaching program for older adults in the perioperative period?

The principle guiding the teaching program for older adults in the perioperative period emphasizes that it requires continued reinforcement. This is essential because older adults often process information differently than younger patients. They may have various cognitive, sensory, and memory-related changes that affect how they retain and recall information.

Continued reinforcement helps ensure that critical information about their surgical procedures, recovery expectations, and postoperative care is understood. Frequent repetition and the use of diverse teaching methods—such as written materials, demonstrations, and verbal discussions—can solidify this understanding, thereby enhancing the patient's ability to follow postoperative instructions and improve health outcomes.

While a concise and straightforward approach is beneficial, it is not sufficient on its own without the necessary repetition to aid memory. Scheduling teaching after surgery can lead to missed opportunities for patients to prepare mentally and emotionally for what to expect, while focusing solely on physical health neglects the psychological and social aspects that also significantly impact older adults’ overall well-being and coping strategies during the perioperative experience.