Guided conversation builds on observed and stated information that you gain as the assessment proceeds, and allows you to confirm and clarify what is seen and what is reported.

Using guided conversation to assess living arrangements and supportive assistance are an example. If you saw stairs in the home, you might ask a direct question, "How many times a day do you need to use these stairs each day?” A more open-ended question might follow, depending on the response. “It seems like it might be difficult for you to use the steps. Is there someone here at those times to help?” From the response at this point you may guide the conversation to gain information about supportive assistance and living arrangement or to pursue physical assessment or direct observation of ability to use the steps.