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Challenging the Behavioral Paradigm: The Unequivocal Rights of PLWD to Express Themselves
Challenging the Behavioral Paradigm: The Unequivocal Rights of PLWD to Express Themselves
Lori La Bey and Leah Bisiani explore the disparities in aged care, particularly focusing on memory care and the importance of personalized, dignified care for individuals with dementia.
Challenges in Memory Care Facilities
Leah and Lori discussed the challenges and disparities in aged care, particularly focusing on memory care and assisted living facilities. They highlighted the exorbitant costs of memory care in some regions, contrasting it with more affordable and inclusive options in Australia, where pension funds cover care fees.
They also talked about the importance of personalized care, allowing residents to bring their own furniture and belongings, and the concept of “dignity of risk,” which balances safety with personal autonomy. The conversation touches on the need for better support systems as the aging population grows, and the importance of listening to people living with dementia.
The ladies discussed the recent International Dementia and Innovation Conference in Bali, where people with dementia were given a platform to share their experiences, and the Aashaya Jasri Resort, which offers a dementia-friendly holiday experience.
Dementia Stigma and Respect Discussion
Leah and Lori discussed the need to change societal perceptions of dementia, emphasizing the importance of treating individuals with dignity and respect. They highlighted how negative portrayals and terminology contribute to stigma and agreed that people with dementia deserve better support and understanding. The conversation also touched on the monetization of fear by big businesses and the importance of addressing unmet needs rather than labeling behaviors as problematic.
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Dementia Care: Person-Centered Approach
Leah and Lori discussed the challenges faced by people with dementia, emphasizing the importance of understanding their behaviors as authentic responses to feeling misunderstood, devalued, and disrespected. They highlighted the need for person-centered care that addresses both medical and emotional needs, advocating for a shift in how society perceives and interacts with individuals with dementia. Lori noted the lack of relationship-focused training in care settings, while Leah stressed the significance of nurturing relationships and providing inclusive, meaningful engagement for people with dementia.
Engaging Older Adults with Dignity
Lori and Leah discussed the importance of recognizing and engaging with older adults, particularly those with dementia, to prevent feelings of invisibility and loneliness. They highlighted the prevalence of undiagnosed depression among older people in residential aged care and the need to differentiate between depression and dementia.
Leah shared her research findings that some residents with misdiagnosed dementia actually had depression, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual needs and providing environments that promote emotional well-being and a sense of control. They agreed that aging well initiatives should prioritize maintaining a person’s dignity and quality of life, acknowledging the diversity of the human population and the risks inherent in life.
Dementia Communication and Technology
Lori and Leah discussed the challenges faced by individuals with dementia, including bullying and misconceptions about their condition. They emphasized the importance of adapting communication methods to accommodate those with dementia, highlighting the significance of non-verbal communication and the need to respect individuals’ preferences in how they wish to be identified. They also touched on the impact of technology on social interaction, noting a shift towards less face-to-face communication among younger generations, which is going to have a huge effect on future care.
Dementia Communication and Care Strategies
Leah and Lori discussed the importance of understanding and communicating with people who have dementia, emphasizing the need to adapt communication methods and create environments that respect their capabilities and preferences. Leah shared her experience in managing dementia care, highlighting the success of personalized, relationship-based frameworks that eliminate stress-related responses and promote happiness. They agreed that these learnings are applicable beyond dementia care, enriching personal and professional lives.
Legacy and Empowerment in Healthcare
Leah and Lori discussed the importance of leaving a legacy in healthcare, emphasizing the need for succession planning and empowering staff. They shared personal experiences and strategies for creating change, including regular job description reviews and open-door policies. Leah highlighted the significance of recognizing and nurturing staff, while Lori emphasized the impact of small, consistent changes. They agreed on the power of authentic communication and the need for an “empathy revolution” in dementia care.
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