Caring for the Heart and Mind: An Interview with Selina Stell, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Meet Selina Stell, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with three years of experience specializing in dementia care. Selina's expertise in this field, a passion she inherited from her mother and a caregiver, is a testament to her deep commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals with dementia. Her profound understanding of the challenges and rewards in this field is evident in her daily work at a memory care community, where she is known for her empathetic approach and expert care.

In this interview, Selina shares her insights on understanding the emotional needs of dementia patients, the importance of routine, self-care for caregivers, and her aspirations for the future.

Understanding Emotional and Psychological Needs of Dementia Patients

When asked how she recognizes and addresses the emotional and psychological needs of dementia patients, Selina emphasizes the critical role of patience. "First, I would say you have to be patient. When dealing with dementia patients, they get overwhelmed pretty fast, so patience is a priority," she explains. Selina is adept at recognizing signs of frustration, overwhelm, or fear in her patients and approaches them in a way that builds trust. "You have to approach them so they feel they can trust you. Don't baby-talk to them, but come down to their level. Try holding their hand, rubbing it, or distracting them momentarily. It's all about your approach," she advises.

The Importance of Routine and Familiarity

Selina's belief in the importance of maintaining a consistent daily routine and a familiar environment is not just important, but critical to dementia care. "A routine is not only important for you, but it's also important for them. Having a routine creates a stable environment for patients, which is crucial for maintaining their physical and emotional health," she notes. She emphasizes that any disruption can be particularly unsettling for individuals with dementia. "Routine disruption throws everything off. For dementia patients, it heightens their anxiety and overwhelms them. A consistent routine is not just helpful, but it's a lifeline that helps them feel more grounded," she adds, providing a sense of reassurance and confidence in the audience's caregiving approach.

Self-Care and Burnout Prevention for CNAs

Working in dementia care can be demanding, and Selina underscores the importance of self-care for caregivers. "You have to take time for yourself mentally and physically," she advises fellow CNAs. "Burnout can happen quickly, especially if you work over 40 hours weekly. If you aren't taking care of yourself, you won't be able to give 100% to the residents." Selina reminds caregivers that self-care isn't just important but essential. "You have to take care of yourself first—that's the only way you can help others," she emphasizes, making the audience feel valued and supported in their profession.

Future Goals and Reflections on Dementia Care

Looking ahead, Selina's aspirations for her nursing career are not just personal, but also reflective of her commitment to dementia care. "At some point, I'd love to become an RN and eventually earn my BSN. It's an honor to make a difference in someone's life," she shares. Her ultimate dream is to own a care facility where she can expand her compassionate caregiving on a larger scale. This vision inspires hope and optimism for the future of dementia care.

Selina's candid advice for those considering a career in dementia care is not just practical but also inspiring. "This isn't an easy job. Your heart has to be in it," she explains. She encourages caregivers not to take patients' behaviors personally and to remember that "this isn't who they used to be." Patience and empathy are not just important but essential. "Please have patience and treat them as if they were your own grandparents," Selina concludes, inspiring the audience to approach their caregiving roles with renewed motivation and empathy, making them feel inspired and motivated in their roles.

Conclusion

Selina Stell's experience, passion, and dedication shine through in every aspect of her caregiving work. Her compassionate approach and expert understanding of dementia care provide invaluable lessons for both new and seasoned caregivers. For Selina, caregiving isn't just a job—it's a calling driven by empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Ways to Connect

Help spread awareness by sharing this content, leaving a comment below, and connecting with Chasity on her other platforms. Follow Mindful Connection on Facebook, and subscribe to Chasity's YouTube channel and podcast, Mind Matters: Conversations on Dementia, Healthcare, and Brain Health. Stay updated on important discussions about dementia care, healthcare topics, and brain health.