Infinity Rehab employees recently attended a special event called “Person-Directed Care is Here: Are you ready for the transformation?” in Salt Lake City, UT. Partners for this special event included: The Eden Alternative, Mission Healthcare Services, Utah Healthcare Association, Regional Alzheimer’s Association, Community Nursing Services, and Dignity Health Systems.
The person-directed approach takes into account the entire situation of a patient – both medically and the patient’s surroundings. A general example of this approach is examining the behavior and feelings of a patient in certain situations and how to work effectively to both reassure and empower them.
Dr. Bill Thomas, a geriatrician, was present to provide education and discussion on the move forward to person-directed care. Dr. Thomas is the creator of the non-profit Eden Alternative group, an education-based business that teaches nursing home administration methods to transform the way they care for elders.
Dr. Thomas provided education and discussion, along with other team members, in new ways of thinking in the care of elders and transformations that are already underway in many of our long-term care facilities. Further focus and discussion was provided in addressing the changes in CMS, as person directed care is becoming more of a focus by CMS.
According to Janel WangsvickLane, OTR, Director of Rehab for Infinity at Hillside Rehabilitation Center in Salt Lake City, UT, “It was great to see all disciplines of care providers discussing how we can change our focus to truly allowing the patient to direct their care and setting up environments and a culture that allows us to truly get to know each person. Very refreshing and inspiring.”