What is a common challenge that elderly inmates face in understanding verbal directions?

Elderly inmates often experience various age-related sensory changes, which can significantly impact their ability to understand verbal directions. Visual and hearing deficiencies are prevalent within this population, leading to difficulties in comprehending spoken instructions or reading written directives. Impaired hearing may prevent them from catching all parts of a verbal message, while visual impairments can hinder their ability to read signage or written materials accompanying verbal directions. This combination of sensory deficits emphasizes the need for clear, accessible communication tailored to the specific challenges faced by elderly individuals in correctional settings.