Universal Design for Cognitive Disabilities in Healthcare -The Power of Plain Language – 2

A cornerstone of universal design in healthcare is the use of plain language. For individuals with cognitive disabilities, plain language transforms complex medical information into understandable and actionable insights, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their health. Here’s how healthcare providers can implement plain language effectively:

The Importance of Plain Language

Using plain language in healthcare communication is essential for ensuring that patients with cognitive disabilities can understand and engage with their healthcare. It breaks down barriers to comprehension and fosters a supportive environment where all patients feel informed and empowered.

Strategies for Using Plain Language

Simplify Medical Terminology

Avoid Jargon: Replace complex medical terminology with straightforward language. For example, instead of saying “myocardial infarction,” use “heart attack.”
Everyday Words: Use everyday words that patients are familiar with. This helps ensure that they can easily grasp the information being communicated.

Break Information into Small Chunks

Short Sentences: Use ...