Naomi Feil validation® in geriatric care

Available expert findings in the field of gerontology demonstrate the increasing number of seniors suffering from dementia symptoms. The disease is associated among other characteristics with a communication barrier, requiring carers to think about the ideal conditions for treating the elderly with dementia.The concept Validation by Naomi Feil® seems to be a convenient communication tool for those who are caring for the disoriented senior. This is a communication method claiming to lessen stress, nervousness, crying and aggression, and to positively affect the relationship between caregivers and seniors.MethodsA questionnaire survey was carried out among professional caregivers working in four social care institutions in Lower Austria to verify the knowledge, approach, and further education interests of carers in the field of Validation. The sample of respondents consisted of 100 professional caregivers in direct care working at varying levels in the organization hierarchy. The results were statistically analyzed using SPSS v19 at a significance level α = 0.05.ObjectivesThe survey establishes the knowledge of professional caregivers in relation to the concept of Validation, their position and opinions on the possibility of using the method in practice, its use in the prevention of burn-out and their interest in gaining new information on the Validation method.ResultsA statistically significant correlation between the level of knowledge achieved about the Validation concept of Naomi Feil and the type of educational activities claimed by respondents has been proved. Respondents with a higher level of education in Validation declared much more interest in obtaining further information about the concept of Validation using these methods of learning: a seminar with practical demonstrations in their own workplace (P = 0.014); self-study in obtaining professional theoretical knowledge (P = 0.001); use of an interactive e-learning course (P = 0.003), and an online counselling or internet advisory centre (P = 0.031). No correlation was found (P = 0.779) between the average age of the respondents and the declared knowledge of the correct definition of Validation by Naomi Feil®. Furthermore, it was verified that there is no statistically significant correlation between the duration of the application of the Validation methods by professional caregivers and their views on the prevention of the burn-out syndrome (P = 0.815).ConclusionKnowledge of Validation in the form of educational attainment in the concept of Validation significantly affects the ability to use concept techniques. Validation by Naomi Feil® is perceived by respondents as an important and effective tool in improving the quality of care for elderly patients.