Working with older adults is a rewarding experience that requires a unique blend of empathy, patience, and professional insight. The foundation of any successful relationship—whether professional or personal—is understanding and respect.
When you truly understand and appreciate the perspective of elder people, it ultimately helps you build a rapport, develop a trusting relationship, uncover issues and concerns, and serve your clients effectively.
So, what are the core values that guide older adults, and how can we align our behaviors to support them?
The Cornerstones of Elder Well-Being
Older adults place tremendous value on a few key concepts that directly impact their quality of life and sense of self-worth. These are non-negotiable foundations for their dignity:
- Autonomy: The freedom to govern themselves and make their own decisions.
- Choice: The ability to select from different options regarding their care, lifestyle, and activities.
- Empowerment: Feeling capable, influential, and supported in their personal goals.
- Independence: The capacity to manage their daily lives with minimal reliance on others.
Recognizing and supporting these values is the most important step in building a positive relationship.
Hear Them Before You Help Them
It can be easy to jump in with solutions, but the first and most critical action you can take is to listen.
Asking them about their needs and hearing what they have to say are essential first steps. You have to hear them before you can help them! A successful relationship is a partnership built on mutual respect, not a hierarchy. Take the time to seek to discover your clients’ views on their own aging and capabilities. Their perception of their abilities matters most.
The Shift: Doing Things a Different Way
A common misconception is that aging means giving things up. This perspective is often incorrect and can be deeply discouraging.
Aging does not necessarily mean not being able to do some of the things you once did. It may just require doing them in a different way. This could involve using adaptive equipment, modifying a schedule, or simply finding a new, safer approach to an activity. Focusing on adaptation rather than limitation is key to maintaining a positive outlook.
Sensitivity to Functional Challenges
As we age, natural age-related changes occur in the body that can affect functional abilities. Knowing that this affects vision, hearing, and muscle and bone mass means we must be highly sensitive in our interactions.
To ensure your interactions are supportive and respectful, be mindful of subtle details:
- Your handshake: Ensure your grip is firm but gentle.
- Your pace when walking: Match their speed or offer gentle support rather than rushing them.
- The volume of your voice: Speak clearly and at a moderate volume, avoiding shouting.
- Environmental factors: Be aware of potential tripping hazards, lighting, and background noise that can impact their comfort and ability to communicate.
Always be sensitive to the functional challenges that may limit an older person. Acknowledging these challenges with empathy and making small adjustments on your part demonstrates true respect.
Building a strong, trusting relationship with an older adult hinges on your commitment to seeing them as a whole person defined by their values and capabilities, not just their age. By prioritizing their autonomy, actively listening to their needs, and being sensitive to their physical reality, you create an environment where they can thrive, and you can truly make a difference in their lives.
By Debbie Crause, CSA
We hope this information is helpful to you in the important work you do as a family caregiver.
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The post Beliefs and Behaviors Older Adults Value appeared first on Family Caregivers Online.
