Older people, their families and the community in general often have a negative view of residential aged care. Hence transition to a residential aged care facility is not an easy decision for older people, nor do family members find it easy to make decisions in favour of residential aged care. Distress accompanies the move as the decision to enter is often unplanned and is made as a result of an acute medical crisis, and is often made quickly.
The "last resort" nature of such decisions often means that the older person has little choice in either the timing of the move or the residential facility. It is not surprising then that older people often experience feelings of guilt, anger, helplessness, grief and loss of their independence as a result of the move. Further, their carers/families often report feeling guilty and stressed after the transition. Reducing such negative consequences is important.
PGPN ACAI currently engages the services of a Mental Health Clinician/Family Therapist, to provide support services to residents within RACF in Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula.
• The Psychological Transitional Support Program is based on 'single session' therapy and structural family therapy theories.
• Individual and family counselling is provided
• Families are consulted throughout the program with feedback provided.
• A mental health assessment is given to a resident if required
• A letter is sent to the residents GP regarding interventions implemented and if required recommendations for future service provision in relation to ongoing mental health support
• A Mental health assessments is completed in consultation with the Unit Manager /GP
Group education: The group education provided to the resident and families includes;
• The Process of Ageing
• Dementia
• Depression
• Advance Care Planning
• The New Chapter (incorporating family rituals)
The clinician incorporates structural family therapy theory to explore with family members (usually the resident's children) the issues of being a carer versus being the child and the impact this has on the relationship they have with their parents. The children potentially have the opportunity to reclaim the child position with the relationship with their parents no longer being the carer. This allows the resident and their family the space to explore the changes in relationships with extended family members. It also allows younger residents (under the age of 70) a chance to explore new possibilities for their lives, to redefine their lives and thus make a contribution to the facility and the extended community. The theories provide the opportunity for the resident to redefine marital relationships and still be an active member of their family.
Contact Shareen Pearson for further information on this program on 9708 8019 or via email
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