Who, Where, and When
Planning the Discussion
The ISEP is designed to be used with older people living in residential aged care. This includes those who do not have dementia, as well as those with early to mid-stage dementia.
The information provided in the ISEP Tool is highly personal in nature. Due to this, the older person may find the conversation difficult, uncomfortable, or embarrassing. It is important that the conversation remains open, lighthearted, and guided by the older person. Strategies to keep the conversation comfortable may include:
Humour
Attempts in making light of the discussion can help make the older person feel at ease and defuse an awkward or uncomfortable situation.
Addressing distress
If the older person appears to be distressed, it is important to address this and explore their feelings.
Knowing when to stop
If the older person does not wish to discuss a certain topic or question, their feelings need to be respected, without pushing the conversation further.
Who should initiate the discussion?
- Someone known and trusted to the older person, with good interpersonal skills
- Spend time getting to know the older person to build rapport
It is preferable that the discussion is initiated by someone who is known and trusted to the older person, such as a care provider who the older person is familiar with. This may help the older person feel more comfortable to discuss private and sensitive information. If the person conducting the discussion is not known to the older person, it is important to spend some time getting to know the older person, so that they feel comfortable talking to the interviewer. The person initiating the discussion should have good interpersonal skills and be able to discuss sensitive information whilst ensuring the older person does not experience unnecessary discomfort or distress.
Where should the discussion take place?
- In a quiet, private area (e.g. the older person’s bedroom, or a quiet area in the garden)
- Be mindful of other people who may be present
Given the sensitive nature of the areas discussed in the ISEP tool, the interview needs to be conducted in a quiet area where the older person has privacy to freely discuss their preferences. The older person may be most comfortable in a private space, such as their room. Alternatively, a quiet living space or garden area where other people are not present may be suitable. If the interview is being conducted in a communal area, take consideration of people who may be walking past or nearby. Be aware of your vocal volume to ensure that your conversation is not overheard by others.
When should the discussion take place?
- Within the first six months of a resident’s stay in the aged care facility
- Otherwise, at the earliest convenient time
- The discussion can be revisited at a later date, as preferences and needs may change over time
It is advisable to have the discussion at the earliest convenient time to ensure timely support for residents’ needs and preferences. It is recommended that the conversation takes place during the first six months of the resident’s stay in the aged care facility. This timeframe allows for a settling-in period for the resident to adjust to their new environment, develop relationships, and determine their requirements and preferences regarding support for intimacy and sexuality expression. Existing residents in the aged care facility should be approached to take part as soon as feasibly possible.
If residents decline an offer to hold this discussion, it is always possible to revisit the discussion at a later time. Residents’ preferences and needs may change over time, and it is important to periodically reassess and discuss the available options with them. As long as it is done respectfully and with the resident’s best interests in mind, revisiting the conversation should be encouraged.