ORLEC

Hello there -- Most of my experience is in HC or RCF dementia care activities. As I have been trained, (and as my resident rights document states), my residents have the right to any consensual relationships they choose. How do you define consensual for active people with dementia? The biggest point is that neither is more confused that the other -- that they are both at the same functioning level. The area that I have difficulty with is when one person with dementia believes that another resident is their spouse (even calling them the wrong name) and becomes very affectionate. On one hand, they would be agast if they knew they were with the wrong person (not to mention how their spouse would feel), but on the other hand this usually occurs just after they are admitted and they are usually needing all the comfort they can get and when the other resident is enjoying the special attention... I have not witnessed this going to a sexual level, but I have never had the heart to break up even this kind of couple.

I have been in the activity profession for the last 7 years and have the state certification. I live in Oregon, where a state certification is all that is required for activity directors, but I am looking at options for advancement and wonder what other people's opinions are. I have met the education and experience requirements and only need MEPAP 1 &2 to meet NCCAP's requirements -- these last two courses seem like they will be redundant, considering my experience. On the other hand, they would probably validate my experience, wouldn't they? Also, I have not been able to find any approved instructors in my state. Do any of you have a referral of a teacher that you have used and enjoyed? Also, any current activity directors who have taken these classes -- how much practical benefit do they provide?