Being Physically Present

These examples reflect the intentional act of being physically present as a form of support; both the caregiver and the family are using non-verbal communication behaviors as a lead caregiving strategy. Unfortunately, in both cases, being attentive and present is viewed as negative and uncomfortable by the individual receiving care. In the first case, the caregiver’s constant presence did the opposite of building trust and instead increased paranoia, while the family’s attentiveness to the daughter resulted in her feeling guilty. One possible way to correct this would be for the caregivers to ask how those receiving their care would like to be supported.