Video Testimonial Interview - Savvy Caregiver Classes - Makeba
Amy Blackburn, MSG, MPH, Program Manager, FCSP: Introduction and summary of the Family Caregiver Support Program “Love 2 Care” at St. Barnabas Senior Services, sponsored by the City of Los Angeles Department of Aging. SBSS is now offering Savvy Caregiver classes, in partnership with USC Edward Roybal Institute on Aging and Alzheimer’s Los Angeles. Family caregiver client in FCSP, Makeba, participated in the classes and research study and this is a video testimonial interview about her experience.
(Time into presentation 2:50) How did the Savvy Caregiver workshop help you with caregiving?
(4:10) How did the workshop help you as a caregiver and your attitude towards caregiving?
(6:10) Makeba’s explanation about being “on an island” but then realizing she is not alone
(7:15) How did the workshop help you to understand how Alzheimer's and dementia affects the person you are caring for?
The perspective of the person with dementia when we think of them as being reactionary.
(10:12) Makeba’s understanding about confusion and why a person with dementia would be combative. “Turn the mirror around”
(11:20) Tell me how the workshop helped you address any problem behaviors.
Judgement altered. No cognitive filter.
(14:05) Makeba’s discussion about the videos presented in the Savvy Caregiver online classes and each stage of dementia when giving instructions to make a sandwich; the importance of setting realistic expectations according to their cognitive stage.
(16:25) Makeba talks about the worksheets as tools, feedback and talking with other caregivers in the class; setting a plan.
(17:30) What did you enjoy most about the workshop?
Discussion and seeing the practicality of what was learned with a diverse group of people and situations.
(21:25) What would you say to other caregivers out there who may not think the workshop will be helpful to them?
Can almost guarantee finding something useful. Makeba is considering taking the longer 12-week course, for helping to “reset” and for the useful tools.
(24:15) Makeba talks about the “mean as a snake phase” and how no one can hurt you more than a family member.
(26:20) Makeba’s story about the ice cream truck, wandering, and needing a door alarm. Talked about the supportive people surrounding her, stigma associated with dementia, and the need for education. Mall story: “It will pass. She will mellow out.”
(29:40) Amy discusses details about the USC So Cal Savvy research project with Alzheimer’s L.A. Makeba was happy to receive her $20 gift card for participation in the first survey (and will receive three more for participating in three more surveys).
For more information about the Savvy Caregiver classes or to participate in research, calls can be made directly to USC: (213) 740-1887.