There is a great difference between Cultural Humility and Cultural Competency. Cultural competence compromises behaviors, attitudes and policies that can come together on a continuum that will ensure that a system, agency, program, or individual can function effectively and appropriately in diverse cultural interaction and settings. It ensures an understanding, appreciation, and respect of cultural […]
I have recently taken on a project that has had me wanting to crawl into a dark hole at the end of the day and cry. I have gone to anyone and everyone that is willing to listen to me so I can vent my frustrations…. Talk about holding the bucket!!! Between meetings, resident interactions, […]
A very big part of empathy infused improv as a communication technique with those we work and care for is introspection. Our desire, willingness and ability to look beyond the situation at hand and consider how we could possibly be a part of results we see and scrutinize. As we ponder our own interactions and […]
In this COVID-19 time, seniors are encouraged to self-isolate to minimize chances of coronavirus exposure. Groups that care for seniors, such as retirement communities in New Jersey, have been trying to keep their charges safe. However, such drastic measures have led more of them to sink into depression and loneliness. Despite the challenge of maintaining […]
You don’t have to be Julie Andrews or Oprah to have favorite things, and you certainly do not need to be a celebrity to bring those favorite things to the attention of others. For months you have been reading blogs about communication and empathy and improv and how all of these concepts mesh together when […]
By Paul P. Falkowski Ph.D. This article is the second in a series of articles I am writing to not only talk about what goes into producing a viable and sustainable volunteer workforce but also to encourage you to explore new and creative ways nursing home volunteers can support you and the people living in […]
By Cathy Braxton, Educator and Owner of Improv4Caregivers I recently had the pleasure of attending a refreshing psychology class at Purdue University. I had to refrain from raising my hand to participate, answer the questions and prompt new ideas as the professor presented the material. On this particular day we underwent an overview of the […]
Today, more than 45,000 people in the U.S. are receiving their Social Security benefits. While some retirees prefer to maintain part-time jobs that don’t conflict with their benefits or retirement plans, many others are uncertain about what to do with all the time suddenly thrust in their lap. While many older adults dream about the […]
Consider what activities are the most meaningful for participants and schedule them first. For example, make sure there is time for physical movement, getting outdoors when weather-appropriate, etc. Schedule activities according to the natural energy cycles of participants. Think about when participants are the most physically and cognitively alert. When do people usually feel sleepy […]
Are you looking for fun and safe activities to do with your elderly loved ones? Crafts are an excellent way for seniors to reduce stress in their lives. Doing crafts has been known to produce serotonin and boost self-esteem. Visualizing, working on, and then creating an item can help seniors feel better about themselves. Crafting […]
