Greek Language and Communication
Most Greek elders will speak English, but many will not speak it well, and many may not be able to read or write in English. In any case, as people age they tend to revert to their first language, which is the vehicle of their earliest memories and has the deepest tie to their emotional past. For most elders, Greek is their first language or ‘mother tongue’ and this, together with other aspects of Greek culture, has helped to make them who they are.
Some elders may be illiterate in Greek as well, while others will speak in dialect and still others move fairly readily between the different languages spoken in their early childhood.
To communicate adequately with Greek elders, Greek language is clearly preferable, and Greek-specific services attempt to employ Greek-speaking staff for this reason. Where Greek-speaking service providers are not available, communication strategies become very important.
It is crucial for service providers to at least be aware that communication difficulties are likely. For example, your client’s response in simple yes or no answers may not be a valid indication of their understanding of the question and thier level of English. As a matter of course an interpreter (Using Interpreters) should be used in the initial contact to establish the level of competency in English. Other strategies, include sourcing some written Greek Translations to explain your service or procedure, use of the helpful hints and strategies mentioned in the sections on Communicating with Elders and Communication Strategies for Service Providers, How to Engage Your Greek Client! To help establish a working relationship with your client and their family, you might attempt some phrases, as listed in Basic Greek Phrases in Aged Care (with audio clips), consulting The Greek Alphabet for help with pronunciation.