Presence is more than just being there.
Malcolm S. Forbes
Sometimes just feeling "heard" might be enough to reduce anxiety and lessen a person's distress. Therefore, it is vitally important to provide opportunities for your elderly lover ones to talk about their fears and help them identity sources of comfort.
Engaging elderly folks in a review of their life and helping them affirm their personal contributions that added value and meaning to the lives of others may help them feel better about this stage in their lives.
You might begin this process by simply asking them to tell you what they are most proud of or about the happiest time in their life. You might also ask them how they would like to be remembered.
Listening is an act of love, and empathic presence involves total engagement with the person to whom you are listening.
I will write more about this tomorrow. Take care and love others by listening to them.
Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
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