🦷 Does age influence a patient’s trust in a doctor?

General
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1

Something happened during my clinical practice recently that made me stop and think.

I met an 80-year-old patient who came for a routine oral examination and scaling. I explained the oral condition and the treatment procedure required.

However, despite the treatment being fairly routine, I felt that the patient was not completely confident or satisfied with my explanation and treatment plan.

older
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It made me wonder:

Was it because I am a young doctor?

I’ve noticed similar situations while interacting with some senior patients. Sometimes, they seem to prefer an older or more experienced doctor.

But why?

:small_blue_diamond: Experience and expertise?
:small_blue_diamond: Trust and confidence?
:small_blue_diamond: Previous healthcare experiences?
:small_blue_diamond: Communication style?
:small_blue_diamond: Psychological factors?
:small_blue_diamond: Or simply the perception that “older doctor = more experienced doctor”?

As young healthcare professionals, we may have the knowledge and clinical skills, but building trust is a different challenge.

Perhaps instead of asking:

“Why don’t elderly patients trust young doctors?”

We should ask:

“What can young doctors do to earn the trust of elderly patients?”

I’d genuinely love to hear different perspectives.

:man_health_worker: Doctors: Have you experienced this?
:old_woman: Senior citizens: What makes you feel confident in a young doctor?
:busts_in_silhouette: Everyone: What matters more to you — age or ability?

What influences your trust in a doctor the most?

  • Experience
  • Communication
  • Knowledge & skill
  • Age
0 voters

Dentistry #YoungDoctors #GeriatricDentistry #PatientTrust #DoctorPatientRelationship healthcare #SeniorCitizens dentalcare #ClinicalPractice

MBH/PS

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2

As a patient, I feel I’d be more comfortable with a young doctor if they took the time to explain things clearly, listened to my concerns, and made me feel heard. At the same time, I can understand why an elderly patient might naturally associate age with experience.Maybe the real challenge for young doctors isn’t proving that they know enough, but showing patients that they genuinely care and are confident in what they’re doing.In the end, I think ability earns respect, but communication earns trust.

3

Yes, it sometimes happens that older patients may distrust a young doctor, but with proper explanation and communication, things can come around. With age, they can also become more vulnerable and may simply need someone who understands their concerns and makes them feel heard.

4

Interesting question. Something most clinicians notice but rarely discuss openly. Good post.

1 Like