Gladys grew up in a loving household where modesty and respect were core principles instilled by her parents. Their home was a sanctuary where she found solace in times of joy and in times of challenge. Their values of modesty and privacy became ingrained in Gladys’s character, shaping her approach to relationships and interactions with others.
The onset of dementia brought about changes in her memory and cognitive abilities. Today, residing in a long-term care home, Gladys remains largely independent in her ability to manage personal hygiene, dress, and engage in conversations, albeit sometimes incoherently.
This Meaning Behind the Behaviour Story illustrates contrasting approaches in supporting individuals living with dementia, emphasizing the significance of person-centred care. It underscores that dementia care cannot be a “one-size-fits-all” approach, highlighting the unique needs and preferences of each person affected.
Using Humour and Excessive Energy Isn’t Always Effective
Rebecca is one of the caregivers in Gladys’ residence. Having attended several workshops on dementia, she thought it wise to invest time in understanding Gladys’s background. Aware of Gladys’s closeness to her parents and her modest upbringing, Rebecca approached her care with patience, gentleness, kindness, and respect. Although uncomfortable with disrobing in front of staff, Gladys has always trusted Rebecca enough to accept assistance from her during bath days.
On one occasion when Rebecca was unavailable, Sheila, another capable worker, assumed responsibility for Gladys. Sheila’s approach, characterized by high energy, loud speech, frequent joking, and even dancing with residents, inadvertently upset Gladys.
Previously compliant with bathing routines, Gladys became visibly agitated, her face reddening and breathing becoming rapid. Recognizing the distress, Rebecca intervened, advising Sheila to adjust her approach. Reluctantly, Sheila allowed Rebecca to take over. Almost immediately, Gladys visibly relaxed, expressing relief. Her breathing gradually steadied, and she seemed to relax, becoming calmer.
What if Rebecca Wasn’t There?
This story powerfully underscores the critical importance of person-centered care in dementia support, revealing the potential consequences of neglecting this fundamental principle. Had Rebecca not intervened, Sheila’s high-energy, cheerful demeanor, loud voice, and dancing—all intended to engage and uplift—instead triggered anxiety and agitation in Gladys.
Without the understanding of Gladys’s specific needs and preferences that Rebecca had developed through attentive care, Sheila’s continued approach could have exacerbated Gladys’s distress. In response, Gladys might have escalated her resistance, potentially leading to aggressive behaviours towards Sheila. In the best-case scenario, this could have meant Gladys missing her scheduled bath for the week, impacting her hygiene and well-being.
In the worst-case scenario, if Gladys’s distress and behaviours were misinterpreted and inaccurately recorded as unprovoked aggression in her medical chart, it could have led to inappropriate interventions. This might include evaluations for antipsychotic medications, which can have significant side effects and are not always suitable or necessary for managing responsive behaviours in dementia.
Thus, Rebecca’s understanding and implementation of person-centered care not only averted immediate agitation but also prevented potential misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatments.
Why Rebecca’s Approach Works
Rebecca’s effectiveness as a caregiver for Gladys stems from several key factors:
Personalized Understanding: Rebecca took the time to know Gladys as an individual. She learned about Gladys’s background, her values, and what makes her comfortable. This personalized approach allows Rebecca to tailor her care to Gladys’s specific needs, including respecting her modesty and maintaining a calm environment.
Matching Energy Levels: Rebecca understands the importance of matching her energy level with Gladys’. By staying calm and composed, Rebecca creates a soothing environment that reduces Gladys’s anxiety and helps her feel secure. This approach contrasts with Sheila’s high-energy style, which overwhelms Gladys and causes distress.
Building Trust and Rapport: Over time, Rebecca has built a trusting relationship with Gladys. Trust is essential in dementia care, where individuals may feel confused or scared due to their condition. Gladys’s willingness to allow Rebecca to assist her with personal care tasks like bathing demonstrates the depth of trust and comfort Rebecca has fostered.
This story highlights the crucial role of caregivers in recognizing and responding to individual needs sensitively and appropriately, ensuring the well-being and dignity of those living with dementia. This approach emphasizes the importance of training, empathy, and ongoing communication among caregivers to provide optimal care that respects and supports each individual’s unique journey with dementia.
If you have concerns about a loved one or a friend and don’t know what to do, you are not alone. Reach out and ask for help. We can help by brainstorming ideas with you that will best suit your situation. Begin by contacting us through our website www.DementiaSolutions.ca to arrange your free 20-minute consultation with one of our Dementia Care Advisors.
DISCLAIMER:
The contents of this blog are provided for information purposes only. They are not intended to replace clinical diagnosis or medical advice from a health professional.
