Topic: personhood
The foundation of Aging Wisdom’s Creative Engagement program is person-centered care, which is built with core values of purpose, respect, and exquisite listening1.
If you are a caregiver, a great start to person-centered care is centering yourself first. You’ve probably heard that caregivers need to take care of themselves to care well for their loved one. And it is true! By clearing your head before focusing on the person in your care and an activity, you are better equipped to meet them where they are and show greater patience. You can do this with a brief walk, a brisk dance to a favorite song, or intentional breathing. …
“Transformation happens when someone feels safe and seen and heard. And when people are recognized as who they are rather than what they’re living with or a diagnosis they’ve been given,” reflects Tami Sandygren, Care Manager.
Tami’s insights in this week’s Wisdom Wednesday podcast provide a thoughtful exploration of personhood, purpose, and ways to honor choice.
In his book Dementia Reconsidered: The Person Comes First (1997), Tom Kitwood first defined personhood in dementia as “a standing or status that is bestowed upon one human being by others in the context of particular social relationships and institutional arrangements. It implies recognition, respect, and trust.”
Personhood in dementia is concerned with treating people living with dementia with dignity and respect, in a manner that supports their sense of self. It focuses on treating the person living with dementia as a person first and foremost. Supporting personhood in dementia is the key goal of person-centered care.
Adapting to a family member’s memory changes gives you and your family a lot to think about. Our Certified Care Managers are experts at helping families make sense of and navigate the changes that come with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. CLICK HERE to schedule a call today to plan your best path forward.
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