Week 7 Competencies & Reflection

Competency (6)

6.1 Determine factors that affect communication with the identified audience.

6.1.1 Segment the audience to be addressed

6.1.2 Identify the assets, needs, and characteristics of the audience(s) that affect communication and message design (e.g., literacy levels, language, culture, and cognitive and perceptual abilities).

Summary: This week, I spent time creating Volume 3, that can be used specifically for caregivers dealing with a person in late-stage dementia (6.1.1). To tailor messaging to this audience, I spent time creating Volume 3 with messaging that would beset fit for late-stage dementia care, such as changing daily routines, exercise, and safety modifications (6.1.2). Late-stage dementia care drastically differs from early and middle-stage, and there is more emphasis on end-of-life planning and comfort.

6.2 Determine communication objective(s) for audience(s).

6.2.1 Describe the intended outcome of the communication

6.2.3 Identify factors that facilitate and/or hinder the intended outcome of the communication

Summary: This week, I spent time working on Volume 3 for late-stage dementia, which means that most of the language and communication has a different purpose than the rest of the volumes. Specifically for Volume 3, there is more of a focus on final planning, care options, and completely modifying daily living so that it is full assisted by the caregiver. Since this is such a great shift from the other volumes, there is a different intended outcome of communication, such that end-of-life planning and full assistance is the goal of this volume (6.2.1). Some factors that would facilitate this intended outcome would be modified examples of daily schedules, exercise regimens, and nutrition guides. Additionally, all healthcare and financial documents would ideally need to be finalized at this stage, which is facilitated through guidance in the other volumes (6.2.3).

Reflection: What? So What? What Now?

This week at the CARE Center, I finished up rough drafts of all three volumes while Sarah continued to edit Volume 1. After drafting Volume 3, I was able to see the changes that are apparent throughout the stages of dementia which can be difficult to understand for caregivers. Hopefully with these guides, caregivers are given a brief, but expansive overview of what to expect for their person. While a difficult journey, these volumes can help caregivers to have a general understanding of their role and expectations. Now, I will spend time making designs for Volume 1, everything from the front page to example schedules, and any extra designs that can be used by caregivers.