Clinical perspectives on the relationship with the body in institutionalized older adults

Résumé 0

Due to its expressive power, clinical practice is necessarily enriched by the acknowledgement of the body. Paying attention to the body entails recognizing someone’s individuality and existence, in particular when it comes to institutionalized older adults. Beyond representations, the body is lived and experienced. In this way, the caregivers’ daily practice is based on a holistic understanding of the person being cared for. Considering the relationship with the body means being able to identify the basics of interactions: body language and the initiation of physical contact. Fundamentals are present in the daily interactions between caregivers and patients: body language and relational touch. However, as simple as they may seem, these principles reflect a reality of the caregiving relationship that requires intention and reflection. Although we all communicate with others, reading body language proves to be another challenge, one that is met through a clinical perspective and the expertise of caregivers. Being able to integrate analogical language into practical reality is then a support for a better understanding of the older adult subject.