Validation Therapy in Dementia: Meeting Those Who Have Dementia Where They Are

Dementia is a challenging and complex condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience confusion, disorientation, and changes in behavior. Traditional approaches to caregiving often focus on managing these expressions, but there is an alternative approach that emphasizes understanding and emotional connection: validation therapy.

What is Validation Therapy?

Validation therapy is a person-centered approach developed by Naomi Feil in the 1960s. It is designed to address the emotional and psychological needs of individuals with dementia by validating their feelings and experiences rather than correcting or confronting their behavior. The core idea is to join the person on their journey rather than trying to pull them back to reality.

Joining the Patient’s Journey

In the context of dementia, patients may often seem lost in their own world, which can be distressing for both them and their family and professional caregivers. Traditional methods might involve redirecting or correcting the person, but validation therapy takes a different approach. Instead of challenging the individual’s perception, validation therapy seeks to understand and acknowledge their emotional experience.

For example, if a person with dementia believes they are living in the past, validation therapy would involve engaging with them as if they are in that time period, rather than insisting they are mistaken. This approach respects their reality and helps them feel understood and supported. By meeting those with dementia where they are, family and professional caregivers can build a trusting relationship and reduce feelings of frustration and agitation.

Effective Communication Through Emotions

One of the key elements of validation therapy is focusing on emotions rather than negative expressions and acting out. Dementia often affects communication, making it difficult for individuals to express their feelings or needs clearly. Instead of reacting to what might appear as disruptive or confusing behavior, caregivers using validation therapy focus on understanding the underlying emotions driving that behavior.

For instance, if a person with dementia becomes upset and agitated, rather than trying to calm them down by reasoning or redirecting, a caregiver might acknowledge the person’s distress. They might say, “I can see that you’re feeling very upset right now. It must be really hard for you.” This empathetic approach helps the person feel heard and valued, which can reduce agitation and foster a sense of security.

Benefits of Validation Therapy

The benefits of validation therapy are numerous. By validating emotions and experiences, family and professional caregivers can:

1. Reduce Agitation and Anxiety: When individuals feel understood and their emotions are acknowledged, they are less likely to experience anxiety and agitation.
2. Enhance Self-Esteem: Validation therapy helps individuals maintain their dignity and self-worth, which can be compromised in the face of a progressive illness.
3. Improve Communication: By focusing on emotions, caregivers often find that communication becomes more meaningful and effective, even when verbal skills are diminished.
4. Strengthen Relationships: Building a connection through empathy and understanding fosters stronger, more supportive relationships between caregivers and those with dementia.

Practical Tips for Implementing Validation Therapy

1. Listen Actively: Pay attention to the person’s words, tone, and body language. Reflect on their emotions and respond with empathy.
2. Avoid Correcting: Resist the urge to correct misconceptions or redirect conversations. Instead, acknowledge the person’s feelings and experiences.
3. Use Reassuring Language: Offer comforting and supportive words, such as “It sounds like you’re feeling really overwhelmed right now. I’m here with you.”
4. Stay Calm: Your own calm demeanor can help create a soothing environment for the person with dementia.
5. Adapt to Their Reality: Join the person in their reality rather than trying to force them into yours. This might mean engaging in their past memories or participating in their perceived experiences.

Conclusion

Validation therapy represents a compassionate approach to dementia care, focusing on emotional connection and understanding rather than behavior management. By meeting those with dementia where they are and addressing their emotions, caregivers can improve the quality of life for individuals with dementia. This approach not only fosters a deeper connection but also helps maintain dignity and respect throughout the caregiving journey. Embracing validation therapy can transform the experience of dementia care, turning challenges into opportunities for meaningful interaction and support.

Akin Care Senior Services offers The Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Seminar which is a 7-hour course for social workers, nurses, and healthcare professionals for credits to become a Certified Dementia Practitioner. We also offer a “Family Scholarship” to take the class at no cost. You may not need the certification, but the education is so valuable. Akin Care Senior Services also offers community education at public libraries, senior centers, and 55+ communities about communicating with a loved one with dementia. You can reach out to sheli@akincare.com to learn more.