Behavioral Observation: Close Family Members (YFA)

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Behavioral observation is one of the best ways to properly identify the needs and competence levels of an individual. This is not only done for those individuals who are vulnerable or who are experiencing crises or developmental difficulties in their lives, but for any person about whom a better understanding is sought. When observation, analysis, and assessment are done, we are able to better recognize, diagnose, and introduce the right therapies or intervention techniques. In addition, when an accurate behavioral observation is conducted, the observer can detect how effective is the setting or environment where the individual is found, and how it influences the development and interactions of the individuals with others. A good observation …show more content…
For confidentiality purposes, in lieu of her name we shall use her initials (YFA), and may also refer to her as subject Y throughout the text. Prior to the behavioral observation analysis and assessment, the authorization of family members was sought, and it was agreed that the undersigned would be allowed to observe the subject and take notes about her and her behavior. YFA is a 93 year old female of mixed European and Middle Eastern background, well nourished, and fairly healthy, if consideration is taken regarding her advanced age and the fact that she is at the moderate/middle stage of Alzheimer’s disease. Notwithstanding her dementia diagnosis, the subject still shows good levels of intelligence, wittiness, decision making, and common sense. The observation took place in various areas of the house where YFA lives, during a regular family visit performed by the undersigned. Being familiar with the undersigned, subject Y acted freely and with no constraints or apprehensions. During the observation session, the individual remained unware that any analysis was being performed and that notes were being taken. At the time of this report the individual has no knowledge that a behavioral observation assessment was performed. This particular social visit lasted over 2 hours, 1 hour of which was spent in the analysis of the subject and her reactions to various stimuli and scenarios, alone, in the …show more content…
She was diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease about 7 years ago and since then she has slowly but progressively declined in cognition and social skills. Although no formal diagnosis had been presented at the time, she has shown a mental health decline in the last 10 years. Due to this, and to the regular observation and care of family members, she no longer remains alone at her home, nor is she allowed to perform any household chores or duties that could endanger her health or wellbeing. Partial supervision started over 10 years ago, and full supervision was in place already prior to the dementia diagnosis, thus ensuring that the subject is never left alone neither at her home nor in any social setting. In order to provide better at home care for her, and to alleviate the work done by relatives, help with activities of daily living and companionship is provided by a personal assistance/nurse, assigned by the local agency for the

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