Trauma-Informed Care
Implementing TIC in nursing homes involves training staff to recognize trauma symptoms, creating supportive and non-punitive environments, and designing care plans that are sensitive to the trauma history of residents. This approach helps improve the overall well-being of residents by creating a more supportive and understanding care environment.
In 2019, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) began requiring nursing homes in the U.S. to provide culturally-competent, trauma-informed services to residents. This approach, while new to many nursing homes, is an extension of person-centered care. Similar to person-centered care, trauma-informed care is a strengths-based approach, placing residents’ needs, values, preferences, and aspirations at the center of our work.
Trauma-informed care (TIC) acknowledges and responds to the effects of trauma on residents' physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being. It involves understanding, recognizing, and responding to signs of trauma, integrating knowledge about trauma into organizational policies and care practices, and seeking to avoid re-traumatization.
Intersection of Dementia and Trauma
Residents with dementia may have unique needs related to trauma. Past traumas can resurface or manifest differently in individuals with cognitive impairments. It is crucial to adapt TIC to address these specific needs, ensuring that care practices consider the cognitive and emotional states of residents with dementia. For example, creating a consistent and predictable environment can help reduce anxiety and prevent re-traumatization for residents with dementia.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) in Trauma-Informed Care
Culturally competent care is a vital component of TIC, addressing the diverse backgrounds and experiences of residents. TIC and DEIB principles share a common aim to ensure all residents feel safe, supported, and understood. This includes recognizing cultural differences in trauma experiences and responses, ensuring equity in care practices, and fostering an inclusive environment.
Training staff in cultural sensitivity, understanding diverse trauma histories, and implementing inclusive care practices are essential steps in integrating DEIB with TIC. For instance, staff should be aware of how different cultural backgrounds can influence a resident's experience of trauma and adjust their care approaches accordingly.
Creating Cultures of Safety and Belonging
What does it take to create a culture of safety and belonging in care environments? In nursing homes, where residents and staff alike carry personal histories and vulnerabilities, fostering trust and connection is essential. Person-centered, trauma-informed care helps us move beyond tasks to recognize the lived experiences that shape how people engage with care.
This podcast episode explores how understanding life histories, addressing power dynamics, and cultivating meaningful relationships can create safer, more inclusive spaces in nursing homes—where everyone feels valued and supported.