Empathic Transitions

Since 1997, Second Wind Dreams® has focused on geriatric care specifically in the area of dementia. From diagnosis to placement decisions, family care and behavioral health, we have been on the cutting edge of innovation and
implementation. For the past two years some of our focus has been on
developing an end-of-life program for those with dementia, thus making our
services for dementia care full circle.

The goal of this program is to provide caregivers with tools necessary to help engage the person at the end of life. An Empathic Transitions kit is provided to build on engagement and engender feelings of inclusiveness and empathy.

At the end of their disease, they lose communication skills both receptively and expressively. This makes it difficult for caregivers to know the best way to engage with them. Engagement in late-stage dementia is important to their wellbeing and quality of life. However, our experience has shown that little engagement except for clinical care is happening, due to lack of knowledge.

As we began to assess the abilities of people at the end stage, we piloted various ways to engage them. It has been eye opening for staff to watch as we interact with patients. Staff members have said things like, “I didn’t even know she could talk” and “he has a sense of humor”. Incorrect assumptions
are made about inabilities when in fact engagement activities result in decrease in agitation, gives the person a feeling of involvement and of course,
the attention goes a long way to compliance.

In addition, we have spent time studying how to provide the best empathic care when death is imminent. This final stage is a delicate dance between
medication management, environment and empathic support from family and caregivers. As the brain changes to its final end, the person is nonverbal,
opens their eyes briefly and slightly, their breathing starts to change, and other physiological changes begin. We have developed an imminent care
package within the Empathic Transitions kit to help increase the likelihood of comfort, support and empathy. Sometimes the person is without family support for
various reasons. It becomes necessary for caregivers to assume that critical role.

Presentation is 1 hour

1. To equip participants with how the brain dies and why certain items can still create engagement.
2. Participants will be equipped with tools to support the resident in the final stage.
3. Participants will identify with end of life through simulation of end of lifewill provide particpants with more understanding with the dying person.

Interested? Fill Out the Form Below.