Empirical research has consistently demonstrated that the communication quality between health care providers and older adults is one of the most informative variables about the health-disease process, as well as the older adults' health recovery. Using a health's biopsychosocial perspective, this theoretical article aims to provide a systematic review of the main research conclusions on this theme. Generically, past research has demonstrated older adults' perceptions about the care are related with the use of a friendly tone, courtesy, encouragement, empathy and a therapeutic partnership building by the health care providers. At the end of article, these results are discussed and suggestions for future research and implications to Gerontology are offered.
communication; older adults; patient satisfaction; health personnel; gerontology
