The Validation Training Program: The Practice of Validation

Rating:
Summary: Should be required reading for caregivers, fromt CNA to MD's
Review: This is one of those books that I wish I had written. Feil puts not only a human face on the diagnosis of dementia, but with that face, she explains the basic human need that lies within; to be validated. People are more than their age, their diagnosis, their care plans and their "issues", but all that is often lost, particularly in a long-term care setting and the individual is reduced to dehumanized terms. But Feil reminds us of the unique needs of the -individual- and illustrates effective means of communicating with -people- with dementia (not dealing with "dementia" as though it were some sort of creature divorced from the person) based on -their- comforts and abilities, not the caregivers. Comunication techniques using music, gentle touch accompanied with verbalization and a variety of other methods (custom fit to your client) proved successful when I implemented them for my clients. A wonderful book which puts the human dignity of each client front and center. Highly recommended!