This enriching learning experience will encompass the interviewing process, recognition
of physical changes and emotional characteristics of the aging as well as the factors,
which influence the medical and dental health of the aging population. The assignment
will be based upon two, one-hour interviews with an individual age 65 or older. The
student will be provided with interview guidelines, questions, and an interview permission
slip. The summary will be a computer-typewritten report, which is due October 26th. The
interview summary, medical history and permission form are all that need to be turned in.
INTERVIEW GUIDELINES:
1.
Introduce yourself and explain the purpose of the interview. Ask person what
they prefer to be called. i.e., Mrs. Smith or Mary.
2.
Explain the types of questions that you will be asking them. Please inform the
person that they will be questions of a personal nature.
3.
If you plan on using a recording device, please ask permission prior to pulling it
out. (Try out the device beforehand to make sure it works, bring extra batteries.)
4.
It is imperative that you have the volunteer sign a consent form before the
interview! The consent describes your project and assures him or her that the
information given will be kept confidential.
5.
Obtain signed permission form from the individual. Have him or her fill out the
green portion of an MDC Medical History Form.
6.
Arrange a time and place which is agreeable for the individual to be interviewed.
Remember not to go to the home of a stranger, and remember that an elderly
person’s energy level may be low at certain times of the day. Choose a quiet
place free of interruptions. This interview is done best in two sitting so as not to
exhaust the interviewee, and to get accurate and descriptive answers.
7.
Communication is improved if you seat yourself facing the individual about 2-3
feet away. Remember to speak slowly and clearly and offer feedback. Do not be
judgmental.
8.
Use open-ended questions. Avoid questions which can be answered with a
simple “yes” or “no”.
9.
Remember it is common for elderly people to cry when they reminisce. Come prepared with a tissue, or be able to take a break if they need to.
10.
Relax! Take your time! Enjoy listening to them. Be patient if they take time
answering. It’s ok if you don’t do every question. The important thing is letting
them recall their life and tell it to someone who is interested in listening!
11.
Thank the person for sharing their history and experiences with you.
12.
Offer dental hygiene suggestions and recommendations to the person you are
interviewing. This is an opportunity for both of you to learn from each other.
To turn in (Check to make sure you have EACH of these elements):
• A signed consent form.
• Completed pages 1 – 4 of the green hardcopy MDC DH Medical History
• A picture of you with the subject of your paper
• List the interview date, along with start and finish times.
13.
Within your paper, provide a summary of your own feelings and opinions about
the interview itself. How did it go? Was your interviewee easy to speak to? Did
you learn anything? Were you surprised by anything you heard? Do the older
adult’s opinions about medications and health correspond with your own? View
the grading rubric to ensure that you have all components necessary for this
project.