Working With Interpreters

Before the visit (if possible):

• Get to know the interpreter. Develop some rapport so you do not go into visit “cold.”

During the visit:

• Face the caregiver. The interpreter should sit off to the side, and you should maintain eye contact with the caregiver while talking.
• Use short, slow speech with simple language.
• Ask for elaboration. If you ever fear something is being lost in translation, ask the interpreter for elaboration. And, if you do, let the caregiver know what the side conversation is about.

After the visit:

• Give your interpreter feedback. Let the interpreter know how the process went for you so that it’s even smoother the next time.