Journal of Aging Science

DEMENTIA, SPIRITUALITY AND WELLNESS: A CASE STUDY

International Conference on Aging & Gerontology

August 8-9, 2016 Las Vegas, USA

Sharon Callister

The Salvation Army Aged Care Plus, Australia

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Aging Sci

Abstract:

Session Description: The session will present a case study for a resident residing in a residential aged ca re environment with high care physical needs. The resident has a diagnosis of dementia and has strong religious affiliations. This case study will outline the spiritual assessment and care planning process in action. The session will demonstrate how the assessment process not only impacts the individual resident, but includes care considerations with family, co-residents and staff to achieve well-being. Findings: The case study reveals a practical example of the interconnectedness of spirituality in a care environment. Story is unique to every person, however individual story is influenced by ours and others lived experience. The case study will demonstrate how individual story is impacted by the lives and experience of other individuals. This has significant implications for assessment processes and the on going support provided from a spiritual care context in a communal living environment. Objectives: There are complex relations between individuals and this does not diminish for persons with a diagnosis of dementia. Spiritual experience and influence is not bound by a disease process, it is ethereal and continues to change, develop and influence throughout the ageing process. The case study will review the complexities associated with interpersonal relationships and how this can add or detract from the spiritual well-being of the primary individual as well as those around them. Roles of the multi-disciplinary care team are complex and have different objectives and indicators when it comes to spiritual care provision. The case study explores relationships between care givers, differing approaches to care delivery and associated impacts on spiritual well-being. The influence of care givers has a profound impact on individual story, this can be one of enablement or disablement, the importance of relationship being intertwined with individual story is essential. Love and belonging is a key element in enablement of spiritual well-being.

Biography :

Sharon Callister has qualifications in Nursing, Business and Health Administration and graduated from the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She began her leadership journey at St.Vincent’s Hospital, followed by The Australian Red Cross Blood Service. In 2006, Sharon secured her first CEO role with Benetas Anglican Aged Care Services. In 2008 she moved to Sydney to become the CEO for The Salvation Army Aged Care Plus where under her leadership she has developed it into a thriving $120m service caring for 1700 older Australians. With more to give, in 2012 Sharon took on an additional CEO role to lead The Salvation Army Humanitarian Mission Services delivering a $75m Federal Government contract, managing welfare for Asylum Seekers at Nauru and Manus Island. Sharon’s leadership has been recognized by many and in 2012 was a finalist in the NSW Telstra Businesswoman of the Year and was included in the 2012 Westpac/Financial Review 100 Women of Influence Awards. Sharon is also known to ‘run for her life’ in 250km ultra marathons that tests physical and mental endurance; qualities contributing to her successful leadership journey.

Email: sharon.callister@aue.salvationarmy.org