Hi There Youngin,

But, of course you can use my writings.

Now about those vehicles, gosh in my time we were lucky to get a walk in
the woods,
day or night. Yep, even in the arctic circle, but that's another story...

Bernie, the elder....with memory.


At 03:25 PM 11/8/99 -0500, you wrote:
>Bernie-- thanks for the excellent comments---may I post them to CARE, where
>they are very pertinent?
>Camilla.
>
>>Some of my part-time semi retirement Psychology work includes Geriatric and
>>Long Term Disability folks, I would like to add a few points of concern to
>>the discussion.
>>
>>We all have a comfort or uncomfortable level, and usually decisions are
>>often made on the basis of that level of the primary care giver, and NOT on
>>the needs of the "patient". This is what I see most of the time. Often
>>decisions are made beyond the time that adjustment to new surroundings and
>>care would be optimal. This puts additional stress on all involved,
>>including the facility that the person is being moved to. What I am often
>>called into, is to evaluate in the management of the "stressed out"
>>resident. Behavior varies from out right physical aggression to refusal to
>>eat and withdrawal, including refusal to take medication. Some folks are
>>then transferred to Psychiatric Units, which makes matters worse, because
>>it adds to the stress of adjustment. Medication, and maybe restraints, are
>>provided to calm and protect the patient, and then moved to placement,
>>sometimes at a high level of care facility. Another major adjustment. At
>>this point the original care givers are more confused and upset, and then
>>in attempts to aid the "adjustment, restrict their interaction with former
>>care recipient. This only adds to the stress patient and family experience.
>>
>>Other listings have suggested that folks talk about these issues when there
>>is an opportunity to plan with rational thought and an understanding of the
>>many variables involved in future options. There are Social Workers who
>>specialize in Geriatric Care Management and are a good source of
>>information and assistance. The use of such professionals provide an
>>objective perspective, which aids in stress reduction for all, and this
>>helps in making the appropriate decision.
>>
>>I would like to add that individual points of view, including various self
>>faith concepts, are valid for the specific individual, and must be
>>understood in that light. When others become involved, it is just as
>>important to recognize their view points and beliefs and together arrive at
>>workable solutions.
>>
>>Hope this adds to discussion.
>
>
>Camilla Flintermann, CG for Peter 81/70/55
>Oxford, Ohio
>http://www.newcountry.nu/pd/members/camilla/one.htm
><[log in to unmask]>
>
>                        "Ask me about the CARE list for
>                        Caregivers of Parkinsonians ! "
>