Module six Looking after yourself

This section covers: 6.1 Impact of our emotions at work 6.2 Self care strategies, boundaries and looking after ourselves 6. Looking after yourself 1

At the end of this session you will be able to: Define the term ‘boundaries’ State two examples of ‘boundaries’ in everyday work List four impacts on care workers Describe three ways you ‘look after yourself’ Learning outcomes 2

working in aged care services is an emotional business – often more emotional than physical one of the most effective tools you have is your relationship tension – putting into practice a model of care which is ‘person- centred’ and has a ‘relationship focus’ versus ‘protect yourself’ by ‘keeping professional’ and put person with dementia ‘at an arm’s length’. 6.1 Impact of our emotions at work 3

The impact of caring on you Being AWARE helps us to COPE & PREPARE! Physical  What is happening to my state of health & well being? Emotional  How do I feel during and when I finish work? Perceptions  How do I make sense of work experiences? Can knowledge help me to cope? Activities  Do I balance my work / lifestyle? Relationships  Has work impacted on my relationships (family, friends) Expertise  What am I learning as a care worker?

How do you feel? How do you feel when a person with dementia ‘spits’ at you or swears at you? We know not to take it personally but does it effect our emotions? How do you feel when you cannot meet the person’s needs or the service cannot meet the person’s needs – a failure? 5

6.2 Self care strategies - using boundaries ‘Boundaries’ = the limits of Appropriate behaviour in our personal and caring relationships. Appropriate boundaries allow us to understand our role, the needs of people with dementia, and workload of colleagues. 6

Purpose of boundaries The purpose of having boundaries is twofold:  protect people we are assisting  take care of ourselves. Boundaries define our limits ! Being aware of your stress levels and using self care strategies will help us to keep our boundaries! 7

Case Study “I have been providing respite to the wife of my client for one year. She is isolated and lonely and often tells me I am her only friend. Last week she gave me a gold watch that once belonged to her husband (my client) because he can no longer tell the time. She also asked me to attend his 80 th birthday party. I love being able to support her and she makes me feel so good about being able to help … but I don’t know whether I should go?” 8

Boundaries of care Know what is expected of you in your role Be clear about your role from the beginning Be self aware – trust your ‘gut’ reaction! Talk to your team leader/ manager Refer when necessary Support your colleagues and seek support 9

Look after yourself and your emotions Manage your emotions and feelings Identify sources of stress Awareness, Balance and Control Regain balance – you can do something about it with self care strategies 10 Looking after yourself

The use of reflection to look after yourself Self talk - address your expectations & be kind to yourself. The most vulnerable people are the people we employ because they are kind & passionate. A different perspective. The practice of reflection 11

1. Assisting and caring for people with dementia will involve your emotions 2. You are responsible to look after your emotions 3. Know your organisational boundaries 4. Work in partnership with your team and manager and know when to ask for help. 12 Key Messages