Caregivers to the institutionalized elderly : a training manual

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Authors
Tomlinson, Carol D.
Advisor
McElhinney, James H.
Issue Date
1986
Keyword
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Thesis (D. Ed.)
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Abstract

The purpose of this manual is to provide information for caregivers to enhance the understanding of the confused, institutionalized geriatric resident, and to identify, describe, and develop skill areas for implementing an effective plan of caregiver/resident interaction.The intended learner population for use of the manual is the institutional caregiver providing direct, daily care for the older facility resident. The manual is designed for either individual or small group training.ContentThe training manual is divided into five instructional units. Unit 1, "A Profile of the Confused, Geriatric Resident," provides a sketch of the physical and emotional considerations so much a part of the institutionalized geriatric population. Unit 2, "The Role of Attitudes in Caregiving for the Institutionalized Elderly," explores how attitudes toward the elderly resident are developed, and explains the use of stereotyping in the development of attitudes and through the care provided by the worker.The third unit, "Abandoning Old Roles, Assuming New Roles," focuses upon the various social roles forfeited or lost as a consequence of institutionalization of the older adult. In addition, functional and dysfunctional roles often assumed by the long-term care resident are presented as well. The final narrative unit, "Communication: Its Role and Practice in the Long-term Care Facility," outlines the function of communication skills in the resident/caregiver interaction and discusses ways of developing various communication techniques to support the therapeutic role of the institutional caregiver.The closing unit provides professional growth references for institutional caregivers. Materials include annotated bibliographical references, simulation and gaming materials, films, and videotapes.Design and ApplicationAs mentioned, the material in the manual is designed for either group or individual use. Each learner unit is prefaced with intended learner objectives. The various manual units conclude with unit material summaries and unit glossary. In addition, each narrative unit contains exercises or discussion guides to further promote and reinforce intended objectives for individual units.Those learners desiring additional resources for growth and development may utilize the annotated bibliographic and information unit, arranged by unit topics, to further individual pursuits.