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9 - Humanitude

Why Human Connection Is Vital for Everyone

from Part I - Caring For Your Mind

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  08 June 2023

Elizabeth Eckstrom
Affiliation:
Oregon Health and Science University
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Summary

Today in US, thousands of older people are living in social isolation. Research shows that loneliness leads to poor health outcomes. Social isolation increases risk of developing dementia and heart disease as one ages. Humanitude is an internationally recognized network. It is a well-researched treatment of compassionate care. A kind gaze, a gentle touch or tender speech immediately triggers oxytocin, and releases in people confidence and love. Unfortunately, too many senior end up trapped in their own living arrangements and become cut off socially …removed from humanity. Nursing home study: In a 24-hour period researchers found that patients were spoken to for only two minutes. Studies of hundreds of patients in care settings where Humanitude is offered, reveal a very different scenario. Humanitude procedures reduce the incidence of delirium, agitation, and use of antipsychotic drugs by as much as 88%. The goal of Humanitude is not to ‘cure’ a person but to ‘care’ a person. All people deserve to stay a citizen of humanity until their final day.

Type
Chapter
Information
The Gift of Aging
Growing Older with Purpose, Planning and Positivity
, pp. 55 - 63
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2023

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