There was at least one hundred years of caregiving experience among the ladies (and two gentlemen) who had invited me to speak to their church group. I always enjoy hearing from my audience and have learned a great deal from their experiences. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cSo, what is one thing a caregiver should never do?\u201d I knew this was a broad topic and expected a variety of answers. The first one was illuminating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cNever call incontinence briefs diapers<\/em> or adult pull-ups<\/em>. Just call them underwear or panties. It is embarrassing for the person and somewhat belittling.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Such a simple act on the part of a caregiver \u2013 but one that can make a big difference to the recipient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Her admonition reminded me of an issue that should always be considered in caregiving: dignity. This word is defined as \u201cthe state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect\u201d and is closely connected with feelings of self-worth. It is always a caregiver\u2019s responsibility to be mindful of and avoid words or actions that show a lack of respect toward the care recipient. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When I was a charge nurse in long-term care, I frequently witnessed disrespectful actions toward patients by a few staff. Whether it was neglecting to close the curtain between roommates before providing personal care, talking to a resident as if he was a child, or exhibiting an \u201cI\u2019d rather not be here\u201d attitude, many guidelines established to protect a person\u2019s dignity were breeched. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Of course, it should be a given that taking care of a loved one at home would always be carried out with respect. But caring family members are also human\u2026and so a little reminder about the importance of guarding our words and actions to maintain an atmosphere where dignity is safeguarded is appropriate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Caregivers Board<\/em>, dignity is the most cited quality-of-life issue in studies of care recipients\u2019 attitudes and behaviors. Their website states that when a caregiver makes maintaining personal dignity a priority, \u201cElderly clients feel more content, and many show improvements in their emotional and physical health.\u201d Following are three areas of personal dignity and suggestions for keeping each intact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When bathing or dressing, look at the person\u2019s face and not the body. Never undress a recipient and leave him sitting or standing naked. It takes very little effort to discreetly position a robe, towel or sheet for cover-up. Close doors and pull window shades if needed to provide privacy. Avoid rendering personal care in the presence of visitors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Depending on the relationship before caregiving, you may already know the likes and dislikes of your recipient. Act accordingly. If you are not aware of preferences, ask and learn what behavior on your part may trigger negative reactions in your recipient. Avoid actions you believe will annoy or frustrate. Watch your body language. Care recipients seem to have an uncanny ability to discern any negative attitudes displayed by their caregiver.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As in so many areas of life, a good question to guide our actions is, \u201cHow would I want to be treated?\u201d Someday, you may have a caregiver safeguarding \u2013 or eroding \u2013 your dignity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Caring Quote<\/strong>: Dementia doesn\u2019t rob someone of their dignity, it\u2019s our reaction to them that does. \u2013 Teepa Snow<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" There was at least one hundred years of caregiving experience among the ladies (and two gentlemen) who had invited me to speak to their church group. I always enjoy hearing from my audience and have learned a great deal from their experiences. \u201cSo, what is one thing a caregiver should never do?\u201d I knew this was a broad topic and expected a variety of answers. The first one was illuminating. \u201cNever call incontinence briefs diapers or adult pull-ups. Just call them underwear or…<\/p>\n