Infantilization
Let’s talk about infantilization.
What does it mean?
In essence it means treating people living with dementia as if they were a small child.
Over the years I have heard many people (unintentionally) slip into a language where they refer to people as if they are lesser than an adult, or speak to them as if they are a baby or small child.
Language often used is:
- Well, they’ve gone back to childhood so they must be a child, therefore I will treat them like a child.
- They are in nappies now.
- I must chop up his food and spoon feed him like a toddler.
- I need a babysitter.
- Come on, eat your choc chocs.
- Do you need a wee wee?
- Let’s put your bib on in case you spill your tea.
Other examples of this are:
- Using childlike activities, like children’s colouring, crayons, games, cups, decor etc.
- Talking about the person’s care in front of the person, as though the person does not understand, or is not there.
This is both rude and demeaning. Most people retain some cognition and like to have some kind of say over their lives.
We would usually save this language and higher tone for small children or our pets.
We are infantilizing an adult, someone who has lived and walked more years than us on this earth and who deserves dignity and respect, like anyone else.
This lack of biographical sensitivity brings about undignified treatment of and harm to those who have previously lived more autonomous lives.
While such figures of speech and language may be helpful to us and others in making sense of how dementia may develop. It is contributing to the misunderstanding and myths. It influences our attitudes and behaviour towards people living with dementia, their carers and adds to the stigma.
This then becomes a barrier to seeing the person and who they are. We can’t deliver person centred care whilst we use this language.
Instead, take time to really see the personality, values and preferences shaped throughout the course of an individual’s life….we can learn so much more about others if we take this approach.
If you would like a chat to “get things off your chest” or ask questions. Please feel free to book a free 30 minute zoom or telephone call.
About Lancashire Dementia Training and Coaching
Hi I’m Rachel, and I’m a dementia coach. I run Lancashire Dementia Training and Coaching and I have 18 years experience working in health and social care.
Having personal family experience of caring for a loved one living with dementia. I appreciate the challenges, the emotional uncertainties and impact it can bring. This experience means I have refined theory and practice.
I am a heart led, compassionate person who listens with empathy to understand and provide safe confidential spaces for people to talk.
I am passionate about raising awareness of dementia and sharing dementia knowledge to empower others.
These methodologies can help us make sense of our thoughts, beliefs, wishes and feelings; and how these link to our actions and behaviours