The Joy of Working with People with Dementia: Cultivating Openness and Growth
Sandy Sabersky and Ruth Neuwald Falcon, Guest Bloggers
I have had the privilege of working with people with dementia and have learned that as their cognitive abilities decline, their hearts remain accessible and expand. It is a true joy to witness the presence of individuals with expanding hearts.
While a diagnosis of dementia can be humbling, it also brings vulnerability, which in turn allows for increased openness. At Elderwise, the adult day program I co-founded in Seattle, I have observed a willingness among participants to try new things and share in new ways. The atmosphere at Elderwise fosters openness, allowing for a depth of presence, gratitude, and warm-hearted acceptance within the group.
In my more than 20 years of sharing experiences with people with dementia, I have come to realize that there is mutual sharing and support, joy, and gratitude for both the frail elder and those who care for them. Elderwise, with its home of Spirit-Centered Care, has been at the forefront of expanding our understanding of how to be with this segment of our population. We use the term “frail elders” to describe those who require more support due to physical, cognitive, or emotional changes.
Frail elders are at risk of becoming isolated and closed if they withdraw from the world as their abilities decline. However, by creating an environment that supports frail elders in becoming more adventurous, joyful, tolerant, and trusting, we can help them continue to grow and move toward their death with openness.
The Elderwise Way is based on modeling an open heart, acceptance, kindness, humor, quiet reflection, sharing, listening, and courtesy. It is a place where individuals can feel whole and accepted just as they are.
Through my work, I have personally experienced growth and want to share this opportunity with others. I believe that spending time with older people can bring joy and light into our own lives. I am excited to share more about The Elderwise Way: Spirit-Centered Care in future posts.
