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Validation training: Connecting with those who have dementia by Kathy Behnke Validation is a communication method that allows elderly, disoriented people to express their feelings to a caring listener. It doesn’t confront the confused individual, instead, Validation looks for an emotion behind what that person is saying, encouraging openness and trust. The Validation method has become a tested model of practice for both professionals and personal caregivers who work with confused older adults. The Validation worker, using empathy, tunes into the person’s inner world to help him or her restore the past by reliving good times and resolving past conflicts. Validation helps disoriented people reduce stress, enhance dignity and increase happiness. With the prevalence of dementia on the rise, Mile Bluff saw the need to create a heightened awareness of Validation. After an overwhelmingly positive response to an educational seminar held last year, Mile Bluff decided to bring Validation certification training to the area. The first two sessions were held in November, and the most recent two training days were held in January. Participants have been able to get a good grasp on the Validation method of communication, and are looking forward to becoming certified Validation workers after the additional training dates in March, May and July. At the end of that time, this community will be better equipped to effectively communicate with those who have dementia. Caption: Steve Klotz teaches Validation techniques to healthcare workers, who are training to become certified in Validation. |
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Mile Bluff Medical Center/ 1050 Division St./ Mauston, WI 53948 / 608 847 6161 Mile Bluff Medical Center, 1050 Division Street, Mauston, WI 53948 608 847 6161 or Toll free in WI at 800 252 4377 © 2008 Mile Bluff Medical Center |
