Compassionate Touch Enhances Connection at Presbyterian Senior Living

The Challenge

COVID 19 made connection and engagement more difficult. Families and volunteers were not permitted on property other than at end of life or compassionate care situations. Many residents with memory loss or communication difficulties could connect in a meaningful way virtually with family or friends. Loneliness and depression are risk factors for individuals not engaged or touched.

The Solution

PSL created a 40 minute recorded education module about Compassionate Touch that includes the benefits, application and technique skills. It can be used right in the resident's room and paused if needed while practicing techniques. Having Compassionate Touch readily available to the care team members has been key to the total integration of the program. PSL scheduled training with nurse aides, personal care aides, nurses and community life team members using their virtual education portal.

The Results

PSL has been providing Compassionate Touch since 2015. They have over 230 certified Compassionate Touch Coaches, and one AGE-u-cate Certified Master Trainer. 

In December, 2020, PSL equipped 989 care team members, 98% of their goal, with the techniques of CT through their 40 minute training program. The remainder being trained in Q1, 2021. They use the techniques with residents in daily care plans and as part of engagement on a 1:1 basis.

Key Benefits:

• PSL staff find CT easy and flexible to use
• CT can be included in care plans and 1:1 visits
• Surveys show CT can reduce care partner stress
• CT helps staff build trusting relationships with their care partners
• CT, along with other interventions, decreases behavioral incidences

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