What steps in the history process would improve your ability to communicate with Mr. Ford?

Mr. Ford is a 62-year-old patient who presents for a visit to the clinic. He presents with vague complaints, is somewhat disorganized, and has hearing loss. He is overweight and has several health problems. He has a history of smoking 1 pack per day for 35 years and previous alcohol use. When you are talking with Mr. Ford, he begins to get tearful.
What functional assessment activities would you consider at this step?
What steps in the history process would improve your ability to communicate with Mr. Ford?
Please answer these two questions no need for introduction or conclusion, this is for a discussion.