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
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