Biography

Catherine Braxton has working in the field of Alzheimer’s and related dementias for over 20 years. She received her BA from the University of Illinois and completed all Master level course work at National Louis University. Catherine is a member of the American Association of Service Coordinators and Illinois Association of Service Coordinators, instructor at Joliet Junior College, Vice President for the 3 Rivers Continuity of Care, forum consultant/ speaker for the Alzheimer’s Association, member of Illinois Professional Women and received the Gentle Touch Award for Outstanding Professional Caregiving/ 2014 from Presence Medical Center. She consults and provides education to families, health care facilities, hospitals and professional organizations.

Abstract

Caring for a person suffering from a form of dementia affects the entire family and requires an entire family to make it work. Adolescents and children are aware of their family dynamic whether the dementia sufferer lives with them or is demanding more attention from their parents outside of the home. The focus of this specialized training is to enhance effective communication and create meaningful moments with the dementia sufferer. Donaldson et al, 1998 identified the most effective caregiver style as supporters... who adapt to the patients level of functioning... creating a safe environment and minimizing frustration for the patient. In-home sensitivity training, empathy enhancement, effective communication strategies and reminiscing skills can empower this population to become supporters within the care giving environment. They can become an integral role in the caretaking process. Enlightened behavior, namely empathy can replace the guilt of a caregiver. Caregivers who learn about the disease can then learn to empathize with the patients, providing an enhanced quality of life. This awareness coupled with the research that indicates that interactions between caregiver and patients impact patient behavior (Teri, 1999) clearly demonstrate that the young population require special attention in order to positively enhance interactions. A personally tailored, fun approach to in-home sensitivity training as well as skill training on effective communication techniques, empathy enhancement exposure and reminiscing through technology will empower this young generation to feel adequate to interact with a dementia sufferer and effectively provide meaningful moments.