But it’s my decision! I’m the one who’s been taking care of him! What gives you the right to make a decision for me?
These are not uncommon statements made by families experiencing medical and health crises. And what about the health care professionals caught in these family disputes—how do they treat and care for a patient when the family is not aligned? Shared decision making is essential in preserving family harmony while simultaneously meeting the care needs of a sick and vulnerable individual. This week on Caregivers’ Circle, Dr. David Alfandre M.D. and I will be reviewing the challenges inherent in decision making among families and health care professionals. Dr. Alfandre will provide specific guidelines and tips for families and staff to follow in order to meet the needs of families and to serve the best-interest of patients.
View all Alz Live Audio View Alz Live’s SoundCloud Channel
About the author
Stephanie Erickson is a clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience as a geriatric social worker. Her primary area of practice focuses on…
Stephanie Erickson is a clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience as a geriatric social worker. Her primary area of practice focuses on Dementia and decision-making capacity. She works with seniors living autonomously, in care facilities, in acute care at the hospital, and who are living with family. Stephanie also provides training and consultation to families, the Alzheimer’s Society, community groups, financial and legal institutions and at professional conferences. She hosts her own weekly podcast called Caregivers’ Circle. She founded Erickson Resource Group which offers holistic services to seniors and their families. Check out her free guide to initiating conversations with aging relatives.
Read All Articles by Stephanie
Read More
Read Less
