Everyone values acknowledgment—whether it’s a toddler seeking a parent’s approval after their first steps or an adult wondering if they’re meeting their employer’s expectations. While it’s essential not to rely excessively on validation for every little achievement, receiving it can significantly enhance our mental health and self-esteem. This need for validation doesn’t diminish with age; older adults also benefit from it but may not always receive it. This is where validation therapy comes into play.
If you’re unfamiliar with validation therapy, we’re here to explain what it is and how it can be beneficial for individuals with dementia and other cognitive impairments.
What is Validation Therapy?
Validation therapy was developed by social worker Naomi Feil between 1963 and 1980 to support older adults and those with cognitive challenges. In a 2003 article in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, researchers Martin Neal and Philip Barton Wright describe validation therapy as a method focused on acknowledging the personal truths and realities of individuals. Although Feil did not originally create validation therapy specifically for dementia, it has since been adapted for use with those experiencing it.
Since the 1990s, validation therapy has gained acceptance among healthcare professionals, although it has faced criticism. Some researchers question the foundational principles and efficacy of the techniques used, while others argue that it may come off as patronizing by essentially “lying” to those with cognitive impairments.
Who is Naomi Feil?
Naomi Feil is a gerontologist who has dedicated her career to understanding aging. Her early life in a senior care home in Cleveland fueled her passion for working with the elderly, leading her to pursue a degree in social work at Columbia University. With her husband’s support, Feil laid the groundwork for validation theory and produced several educational films on the subject.
How is Validation Therapy Implemented for Dementia?
Validation therapy prioritizes empathy and listening, treating individuals with dementia as valuable and unique. As Dana Larson notes for A Place for Mom, it’s about helping these individuals express themselves, whether verbally or nonverbally. Many older adults may express unresolved issues through hallucinations or a distorted sense of reality. Validation therapy acknowledges their feelings and actions respectfully, rather than dismissively.
Here are some practical techniques used in validation therapy:
- Speaking in a calm, clear tone.
- Taking a moment to gather your thoughts and respond lovingly.
- Making eye contact.
- Avoiding arguments or corrections.
- Reflecting their feelings back to them.
- Focusing on the specifics of a situation without questioning their rationale.
- Redirecting conversations to positive memories.
- Engaging their senses with questions about past experiences.
- Setting aside personal emotions to make them feel heard.
What Benefits Can Validation Therapy Offer?
While research on the effectiveness of validation therapy remains inconclusive, many caregivers report positive changes in individuals with dementia. These improvements can include:
- Better posture and eye contact
- Enhanced social interaction
- Reduced agitation and emotional distress
- Improved communication skills
- Increased mobility and activity levels
- Greater self-esteem and social engagement
- A renewed sense of humor and reality awareness
Given the varying responses to this therapy, it’s wise to discuss it with a healthcare professional before trying it with a loved one.
Is Validation Therapy Condescending or Soothing?
Dementia alters an individual’s perception of reality and may lead to delusions or hallucinations. While validation therapy aims to comfort and affirm their experiences, critics argue it can be patronizing. However, denying their experiences may cause distress, since individuals with dementia often struggle with short-term memory and rational thought.
How to Communicate with Someone with Dementia?
When using validation therapy, communication style is crucial. To foster a respectful interaction:
- Stick to casual conversation starters about their feelings.
- Avoid questions about recent events that may confuse them.
- If they reference an incorrect event, gently change the topic without correction.
- When leaving, opt for a non-final phrase like, “I need to go run an errand,” to avoid causing anxiety.
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Summary
Validation therapy serves as a supportive approach for individuals with dementia, emphasizing empathy and acceptance of their unique experiences. While research on its effectiveness varies, many caregivers have reported positive outcomes, making it a potential avenue for enhancing the quality of life for those affected by cognitive impairments.