Eldercare Planning

I have recently had several clients ask me to consult with them around planning for the future of their parents or spouse. Generally, they have not been in crisis, but are stressed, and can see that the need to act will come sooner rather than later.

One common factor for all of them has been that they have not included planning for themselves. They have not looked at how they will handle the stress, and how they will decide when they have reached their limits. They have not thought about what they will be willing to do, and where they will say they cannot do more.

We often hear about the need for "Care for the Caregiver." This often comes up when people's stress levels begin to rise. Before you get to that stage, where you need "care for the caregiver," do some planning about yourself.

It is essential that people start to think about this. It is like the other side of eldercare planning, but equally important. Part of the problem is that people don't think about what will be called for. Sometimes it is that they don't want to know what's coming, and sometimes they know, but don't want to think about it, because of the pain and grief this entails.

Here is why you need to think about it: It will help you be a better caregiver, and help spur you to find the resources you need to keep on doing this so that you do not burn out.

Dementia and Stimulation

The Recreation Director at Dufferin Care Centre told me about Flaghouse ( www.flaghouse.ca). They have products and catalogues for many different populations, including for people with disabilities and dementia. She showed me Snoezelen a method and products for stimulation of people, with among other things, dementia. For information on this product: http://www.flaghouse.ca/SnoezelenAL.asp

What I especially like is that it allows people to interact with loved ones who have advanced dementia. Or maybe I should say, it allows people with advanced dementia to interact with their loved ones.

From their website: The SNOEZELEN environment is safe and non-threatening. Children and adults with disabilities or other limiting conditions enjoy gentle stimulation of the primary senses. There is no need for intellectual reasoning. Participants experience self-control, autonomous discovery, and exploration-achievements that overcome inhibitions, enhance self-esteem, and reduce tension. Free from the expectations of others and away from the pressures of directed care, they recuperate and relax.
Research has shown that multisensory environments offer a wealth of benefits, often affording the participant and caregiver an opportunity to improve communications, enhance their understanding of each other, and build trust in their relationship. SNOEZELEN is a wonderful experience to enjoy and share-a place that replenishes the spirit. SNOEZELEN® is a registered trademark of ROMPA® Ltd. All