Person-Centered Approach Helps George Plan His Day
When George started at his current Adult Day Services location in Torrance at the beginning of the year, his life skills coaches recall that he was quiet, avoided eye-contact and ignored questions.
That all changed when George, who uses a wheelchair and is non-verbal, was selected to participate in a pilot program for the new Person-Centered approach being implemented at Easterseals Adult Day Service sites. Person-Centered practices focus on respecting and valuing the uniqueness of the individual and work to fit the service to the person, rather than fitting the person into the service.
Once George was shown ways to communicate his wishes directly with staff, such as selecting an activity by gazing steadily at one in a series of pictures, or gazing up and to the left for yes, directly left for no, it was a whole new approach. Staff also learned how to better “read” George’s facial expressions to determine what did and did not work for him.
The ear-to-ear smile that lit up George’s face when making a selection cued the staff into the fact that music on Wednesdays is a “can’t miss” activity and that his favorite musical performer is Elvis Presley. George also expressed an interest in painting and his coach has quickly learned how to help guide his hand to the exact color he wishes to use for his next brush stroke. Painting to the beat of the accompanying music, George makes it clear when he is ready to move on by letting go of the brush when he is finished with a particular stroke.
The ability to select his own activities and advocate on his own behalf brought out a more enthusiastic and engaged George, with increased eye contact and a gaze that remains steady during conversations with other people.
“Providing George with communication tools and techniques through the Person-Centered approach has not only given him more input and control of his day, it has caused a notable difference in George’s demeanor and behavior,” said Amber Carey-Navarrete, Program Director and Person-Centered Trainer/Consultant. “Our work with George is just one example of how Easterseals makes profound, positive differences in people’s lives every day.”
Learn more about Easterseals Adult Day Services here.
