People with communication disorders form a diverse group with some experiencing long-standing disorders and others the onset of new disorders in old age. Regardless of age at onset, the burden of communication disorders is cumulative and has important implications for health care providers. Communication serves many roles for older people, not only establishing and maintaining social affiliations but also providing access to health care services. Health care providers should be aware of potential communication disorders and make provision for quiet environments, reading materials at appropriate literacy levels, and longer appointments for people with communication difficulties.