Dec 20, 2023
Navigating the delicate balance of enhancing family and caregiver interactions within senior living communities is a multifaceted challenge.
My guest today, Erin Thompson, is a passionate leader in the senior living industry, with over two decades of dedicated experience. Erin has led four dynamic teams within assisted living memory care communities, her commitment to changing lives within these communities extends not only to the staff and residents but also to their families. Erin brings a personal perspective to her work, having cared for her grandmother for 15 years. This experience gives her unique insight into the struggles families face when transitioning their loved ones into senior living.
Erin supports families by emphasizing the importance of senior living communities asking the right questions to understand the residents' and their families' concerns and needs. The journey involves providing encouragement and emotional support to families during this critical time.
We talk about what success looks like for families in these settings. Building trust in caregiver-family relationships is vital, as is approaching conversations to ensure open communication. An essential aspect of this process is appreciating the hard work and dedication of the caregiving staff. We explore the concept of the 'emotional bank,' emphasizing the need to build strong relationships between caregivers and families. Misunderstandings can arise in any caregiving setting, so we discuss strategies to resolve conflicts between families and caregiving staff.
Overcoming guilt and shame and feeling supported in the decision-making process for a loved one's care is another critical area of focus. In our interview, Erin beautifully articulates the importance of building intrinsic value in relationships between families and caregivers. She encourages a shift in mindset and offers help in understanding these dynamics.
Erin's approach is not just about addressing immediate needs; it's about fostering a supportive and understanding environment where both families and caregivers feel valued and heard. This comprehensive approach is essential in ensuring that senior living communities not only meet the physical needs of residents but also enrich their emotional and social well-being.
Thank you, Erin, you authentically share with kindness and confidence, thank you for being you!
Learn more at www.aspireformorewitherin.com
*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
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