Table 2: Thanksgiving conversation responses.
Cognitive level | Patient’s possible responses | Assessment of responses |
Above average | I will go visit my family, and we always have a blast. Hopefully you won’t get mad that I will break my diet that day. [Chuckles] |
Is aware of plans for future with comments on past. Aware of healthy dietary standards and temporary change during family reunion. |
Average | I'll go visit my family. I’m not sure what time I need to be there or what I need to bring. | Is not bothered by the limited awareness of times or family’s wishes. This laissez-faire attitude is likely to be repeated in following treatment recommendations. |
Below average | I don't know. I don't like going. [Feeling frustrated with clinician] | Limited awareness about the importance of the gathering and is unable to explain what prevents the experience from being positive. Reflects limited awareness of the consequences of non-adherence. |
Learning weakness | Not sure, I have to call my family and see what I am supposed to do. [Conveys uncertainty on how to respond] Responds with a topic vaguely connected to the holiday or family. |
Aware of limitations and recognizes the need for help with details. Changes conversation to topic not relevant. May distort treatment recommendations. |
Intellectual disability | Is unable to understand, and the physician will need to find a more reasonable form of verbal interaction. | Usually are accompanied by family or caretakers that explain reasons for visit. |
Adapted from Delgado SV, et al. (2015) [16].