First of all, I want to acknowledge one of our dedicated family caregivers for sharing this invaluable story about her father, who lives in a care home. Even after over 28 years as a Dementia Consultant and Educator, I continue to learn from the experiences people generously share with me. This story serves as an important reminder that no matter our level of training, education, or experience, we don’t always have all the answers. That’s why I’ve made it my company’s mission to remain committed to ongoing education and spreading knowledge to others. I always emphasize that there’s a reason behind every behavior, and “Edmond’s” story is a powerful example of that truth.
Edmond’s Story
While visiting with Edmond one day, my client, “Annie” noticed her dad was leaning heavily to one side in his wheelchair, requiring her to constantly reposition him. Concerned for his well-being, she asked him how he was feeling, but he did not express any pain. Aside from his awkward posture, he showed no signs of fever or visible discomfort. Uncertain about the situation, Annie approached the staff to inquire if they had noticed anything unusual about Edmond. However, they too found no physical issues.
Initially, both Annie and the staff speculated that Edmond might simply be tired or that his condition was part of the natural progression of his illness.
A few days later, when “Pamela”, Edmond’s companion, arrived for her shift, she immediately sensed something was off. She observed that he was slouched in his wheelchair and appeared unwell. Having known Edmond for several months, Pamela was attuned to his usual demeanor and felt that this behaviour was not typical for him. Trusting her instincts, she voiced her concerns to both Annie and the nursing staff.
Pamela recognized that this deviation from Edmond’s baseline behaviour warranted further investigation, and she advocated strongly for the registered staff to look into his condition more closely.
The Reason Why Edmond Was Slouching on His Wheelchair
Edmond was sent to the hospital for testing, where it was discovered that he had developed sepsis—a serious blood infection caused by Klebsiella aerogenes, linked to pneumonia. He received IV antibiotics for seven days and was hospitalized for nine. Thankfully, the infection was caught in time, and imaging tests showed that it hadn’t spread to his heart.
The reason Edmond had been leaning in his wheelchair was due to weakness from fighting the infection even though he didn’t have any other typical symptoms of illness or pneumonia.
Once the infection cleared, Edmond returned to his usual self.
Important Lessons Learned from Edmond’s Story
Pamela exemplified the qualities of an exceptional caregiver. Her attentiveness and deep understanding of Edmond’s typical behaviour enabled her to notice subtle changes not just in his posture, but in his overall condition. Rather than dismissing the behaviour as a normal part of aging, Pamela trusted her instincts and escalated the issue to the nurses.
Pamela’s careful observation, along with the medical team at the hospital prevented Edmond’s condition from worsening. Thanks to their quick actions, Edmond received a timely diagnosis and treatment, sparing him from further suffering and allowing him to recover fully.
People with Dementia Have a Voice
Those living with dementia may struggle to express themselves, but they still have a voice—and that voice is us, their caregivers. While we may not all possess medical expertise, we have “personal expertise.” Our unique relationships, knowledge, and daily interactions with those we care for provide invaluable insights that only caregivers can offer.
Just because someone with dementia can’t speak about their discomfort doesn’t mean they aren’t in pain. In moments of silence, we must listen more closely. Trust your instincts—your “gut feeling” could be the key to advocating for the person you care for. They rely on you to speak on their behalf.
The Power of Education in Dementia Care
Edmond’s story is a testament to the life-saving difference that education and awareness can make. It reminds us that knowledge is not just about facts or procedures—it’s about understanding the human side of dementia care. Every person with dementia will be different and every caregiver, whether family or professional, has the power to make these critical observations, but education is what equips us to act on them.
In a world where dementia is on the rise, the greatest gift we can give those living with it is to continue learning and advocating for their needs. With each course, session, and shared story, we grow stronger in our ability to offer compassionate, informed care that preserves dignity and improves lives. Dementia education isn’t just important—it’s essential. Lives depend on it.
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.
If you have concerns about a client/resident, a loved one, or a friend and don’t know what to do, please reach out and ask for help. You are not alone. We can help by brainstorming creative 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:
This article is based on a true story; however, names, locations, and certain events have been altered to protect the privacy and confidentiality of the individuals involved. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.
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.
