According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, about 1 in 4 people still believe that nothing can be done about dementia. While dementia has no cure, many approaches can support those living with it—one of which is fostering autonomy and choice. Sylvia, a resident with dementia at Enliven’s Cashmere Heights Home, shares her story, passions, and past leadership experiences when she participates in candidate interviews for the home.
At 95 years old, Sylvia has been living at Cashmere Heights for more than 10 weeks after living independently in her own home. She lit up sharing highlights of her life story and what brought her happiness leading up to the present day. The conversation began with a warm handshake and thoughtful gesture: “Your hands are cold, let’s get this woman a tea to warm her hands up.” Her words and actions reflected the person she not only was, but still is today.
Sylvia worked passionately towards helping many people through their struggles and spent 39 years as a president of the women’s section at the RSA. Following World War 2, she dedicated herself to supporting veterans, guiding them through trauma, financial management, and emotional distress.
“The men had great problems,” she said. “But I enjoyed helping others, I still do; it is part of me, and I am not quite ready to let that go.”
Sylvia’s leadership has continued to the present day following a heavy involvement in the hiring process for Cashmere Heights staff. When new candidates are being interviewed, it is important to her that there is a cultural fit to determine whether they possess traits of compassion and respect for residents and existing staff.
“I think cultural fit is very important. When meeting with a candidate, I wonder how they will fit in and what kind of characteristics they possess,” she said.
“I was the president of the woman’s section, so I was considered a good fit for the job. When I was working, I was in charge and always interviewed the staff that came through. I was very proud of it, and it has continued until today.”
“I look at culture and what we have here already, then I make sure that it will work when hiring new people. You can’t come here and not be caring,” she says.
Coming to terms with the diagnosis, Sylvia admits that it was a bit hard accepting moving into a dementia level care home, but soon realised that it was a much-needed transition.
“The girls are just more caring; things I couldn’t do at home, I can do here. I am very grateful for that.”
In her spare time, she loves to assist others around the home – whether a staff member or resident – which may involve offering a listening ear, guidance, or a helping hand.
“Sylvia is a vital and important part of our whanau here at Heights and at Enliven,” says Manisha, Cashmere Heights and Home manager. “I am grateful for her unique lived experience she brings to the interview process and that Enliven has encouraged us as managers to do.”
Enabling autonomy can significantly improve the wellbeing of a person with dementia. Sylvia shows that overall, she prides herself on her ability to be there for others. Despite having dementia, her leadership abilities from serving the RSA for 39 years continued to her residency at Cashmere Heights. Behind her condition is someone with a story; to this day, living up to her values of leadership, caring for others, and connections enables autonomy and expression.
