Caregiving Series: Balancing 'Duty to Care' with 'Dignity of Risk' Panel (2023)
In this webinar, Sky Lee, registered social worker, discussed the delicate balance between the duty of care and the dignity of risk in caregiving. The webinar explored the concept of dignity of risk, which advocates allowing individuals to take calculated risks to foster self-confidence and unlock their full potential. Conversely, it addressed the duty of care, highlighting the caregiver's responsibility to maintain a safe environment for those they care for.
Throughout the talk, various crucial topics were discussed. These included proactive safety planning, the significance of self-care for caregivers, strategies for managing feelings of guilt, and approaches for dealing with resistance to specific activities.
The webinar also underscored the importance of assessing and effectively managing risks, preserving the independence of individuals living with Parkinson's disease, and bolstering their self-confidence. Key principles involved transparent communication, engaging individuals in decision-making processes, and recognizing the role of cognition. Moreover, the content stressed the value of documenting personal preferences and legal matters to uphold individual autonomy.
Within the context of British Columbia, the webinar clarified the significance of advanced directives and representation agreements. It provided practical resources, including worksheets and relevant questions, to aid individuals in articulating their goals and preferences. Emphasizing the priority of safety when cognitive impairment is a concern, the webinar proposed strategies, such as blister packing medications, to enhance independence while mitigating associated risks. Lastly, involving family members emerged as a crucial means of managing resistance and offering support to individuals grappling with advanced Parkinson's disease and cognitive challenges.
**Disclaimer: These sessions are designed to provide general education and are not intended for individual advice and/or clinical care. The information conveyed in this recording was accurate at the time of presentation.**