The validation approach is a method of care that is gaining popularity in memory care facilities in Corrales, NM. This approach provides a more person-centered care for Dementia patients. The validation approach is beneficial for both the patient and the caregiver. This blog post will discuss what you can expect from the validation approach for dementia patients in memory care facilities.
What is the Validation Approach?
Naomi Feil developed the validation approach in the 1970s. It is a method of care that focuses on providing a more personalized and humanized form of care for dementia patients. The validation approach is beneficial for both the patient and the caregiver.
The validation approach is rooted in the belief that every person, no matter how cognitively impaired, has something valuable to offer. This approach provides a way for caregivers to connect with patients on a deeper level, which can lead to a more positive experience for both parties involved. The four stages of the validation approach are designed to meet this need by providing opportunities for both verbal and nonverbal communication.
In the reflection stage, caregivers listen to and reflect the residents’ emotions. This can help residents feel understood and validated and provide caregivers with useful information about how residents are feeling. In some cases, reflecting emotions may also help to diffuse difficult situations and learn how to feel relaxed. For example, if a resident is feeling angry, the caregiver can reflect back that anger and help the resident to identify healthy ways to express it.
In the confirmation stage of the validation approach, caregivers validate the feelings that residents are experiencing. This is done by providing empathy and support and allowing residents to express their feelings. This can be a very powerful experience for residents, allowing them to feel heard and understood. Additionally, this stage can help to build trust between caregivers and residents.
In the sharing stage, caregivers share their experiences and feelings with residents. When caregivers share their own experiences and feelings with residents, they can provide a more supportive and understanding environment for the residents. Sharing experiences and feelings is an important part of the validation process, which can help improve the quality of life for both caregivers and residents.
Lastly, in the discussion stage, caregivers and residents discuss solutions together. The validation approach can help reduce anxiety and confusion for residents with dementia by providing a supportive and compassionate way to communicate. This approach can be used in a variety of settings, from one-on-one therapy sessions to group treatments.
There are many benefits associated with the validation approach, both for patients and caregivers. For patients, the validation approach can help to improve communication, increase feelings of self-worth, and reduce anxiety and agitation. For caregivers, the validation approach can help to build a stronger relationship with the patient, improve communication skills, and decrease caregiver stress. In addition, this approach can also improve sleep quality and daytime functioning in dementia patients.
Conclusion:
The validation approach is an effective method of care that focuses on providing a more personalized experience for both the patient and caregiver in memory care facilities. While the validation approach is not a cure for dementia, it can help patients feel more connected and valued and may improve their quality of well-being and improve communication and relationships between caregivers and patients.
