Caring for aging loved ones is a journey that brings both joy and challenges, and many families often find it tough to juggle compassion with the intricacies of senior care. From grasping healthcare needs to advocating for dignity, the caregiver’s role can sometimes feel like a heavy burden.
Leslie Sedille, who has a wealth of experience in senior care advocacy and Geriatric Care Management, is here to guide families through these hurdles with clarity and confidence. We reached out to Leslie for some practical tips on managing caregiver stress, enhancing family support, and nurturing more compassionate, effective care to the senior citizens.
I’ve worked with seniors my entire adult career, and I spent a lot of time with a senior family member growing up. After completing my six-month Music Therapy internship and graduating from FSU, I faced a hiring freeze due to 9/11. I started working as an activity director at an assisted living facility, and I loved it.
As a military spouse, I worked in various facilities across different states, and I noticed that compassion, empathy, and respect were often lacking in the industry—especially toward the people we were caring for.
By providing respect and dignity for the individual with dementia. I want to make sure their voices are heard and their choices are facilitated, even as their cognitive abilities change.
There are several misconceptions, but one of the biggest is that families believe they don’t have a choice in the caregiver. If they don’t connect with the caregiver or aide, they should feel comfortable calling the office and requesting a change. It’s their home, and everyone there should feel at ease, especially the person receiving care.
– Leslie Sedille
I think the best way to protect the dignity and rights of seniors by being their voice. I help explain their actions by considering factors like whether they heard or saw something correctly. Many of the issues I’ve encountered with clients are related to communication, and by addressing these issues, we can better advocate for their needs.
I try to guide families by actively listening and providing honest feedback, not only from a business perspective but also from my experience as a CSA™️ and CGCM. I remind them that we are here to help with any questions and encourage them to be open about their loved ones’ needs. The more information we have, the better we can tailor care. We don’t want the caregiver or aide walking blind.
Caregiving is a journey that demands strength, patience, and a deep sense of purpose. It involves not only meeting physical needs but also providing emotional support to both the caregiver and the loved one. The challenges can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, they become more manageable.
As Leslie Sedille emphasizes, the key to successful caregiving is empowering families with the right tools, compassion, and communication strategies. This approach helps caregivers navigate difficulties with confidence, ensuring that both they and their loved ones receive the care and respect they deserve.
Leslie Sedille is dedicated to improving the lives of seniors through her role at Paradise Home Health Care. With certifications as a Certified Senior Advisor and Certified Geriatric Care Manager, Leslie brings a wealth of knowledge to guide families with compassion and expertise. Her strong communication and advocacy skills empower families to make informed decisions, ensuring seniors receive the care and dignity they deserve. Leslie’s commitment to service and advocacy extends beyond client relationships, focusing on enhancing community awareness of senior needs.
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