Case Study: Tailored Approach to Personal Care for a Client with Dementia

Client Background

Our client, Mrs. Smith, is an 88-year-old woman diagnosed with dementia. She lives at home with her husband, who serves as her primary caregiver. Personal care, including bathing and hygiene, is a crucial aspect of Mrs. Smith's care plan to ensure her well-being and dignity.

Challenge

In Mrs. Smith's care plan, personal care emerged as a significant goal and challenge. She had a history of non-compliance in this respect and during our initial attempts to provide personal care, we encountered resistance from Mrs. Smith. She expressed discomfort and reluctance, particularly when it came to undressing fully, a standard procedure in personal care routines. Understanding the reasons behind her resistance was essential to tailor our approach effectively.

Approach

• Listening and Observation: Our caregiver took the time to listen to Mrs. Smith's responses and observe her reactions during personal care attempts. This helped us gain insights into her concerns and preferences allowing us to identify which step in the process served as the largest hurdle to achieving this care goal.

• Consultation and Collaboration: The caregiver, along with the care team comprising the care coordinator, client family, and other relevant stakeholders, engaged in collaborative discussions to dissect Mrs. Smith's responses and identify underlying issues.

• Identifying Barriers: Through careful analysis, we identified that Mrs. Smith's resistance stemmed from discomfort with fully undressing. 

• Tailored Solution: Recognizing that each individual's needs are unique, we devised a tailored solution to address Mrs. Smith's concerns while ensuring her personal care needs were met effectively. We decided to wrap Mrs. Smith in a towel during personal care sessions, allowing her to remain covered while providing access to her body for thorough cleaning.

• Prioritizing Dignity and Comfort: Central to our approach was the understanding that Mrs. Smith's dignity and comfort must remain paramount. We wanted her to feel safe and valued, knowing that her concerns were heard and addressed. We did not push her and we only worked when 

Outcome

Implementing the tailored approach proved to be highly successful. Mrs. Smith responded positively to the adapted personal care routine, demonstrating reduced resistance and increased cooperation during subsequent sessions. By prioritizing her comfort and dignity, we fostered a trusting relationship built on empathy and understanding.

Conclusion

At our home care agency, we are committed to providing personalized and compassionate care that respects the individuality of each client. By listening attentively, collaborating with our care team, and adapting our approach to meet specific needs, we ensure that our clients receive the highest quality of care while maintaining their dignity and well-being at the forefront of our efforts. Mrs. Smith's case exemplifies our dedication to tailoring solutions that prioritize the unique preferences and challenges of those we serve.

A Note From the Family