This week has been the Australian Speech Pathology
Conference in Melbourne. I attended 1 day of the conference, and have come away
with some great insights across the breadth of Speech Pathology practice.
Of particular note was the Keynote Speaker,
Associate Professor Jacinta Douglas, who presented the Elizabeth Usher Memorial
Lecture. The title of her address was
"Placing therapy in the context of the
self and social connection."
Associate Professor Douglas works in a rehabilitation
setting primarily. However her research has wide reaching implications
for all Speech Pathologists. In particular, anyone working in a Human Rights
framework and Social Inclusion and Social Justice for all.
She identified Social Connections as being paramount
to ones needs in returning to the community after an Acquired Brain Injury. This is just as critical in working with any
individual with communication needs.
Social Connections and social relationships
also have significant power and make a difference in
·
Health mortality;
·
Emotional well being;
·
Self identity.
She noted – “even 1 really good relationship
makes a difference.
In her research she asked people who had more
successfully re-integrated into the community after their Acquired Brain Injury, how do you get Social Connections?
There were 6 critical elements identified
·
family
- which may lead to other connections;
·
friends;
·
paid
carers - these do have boundaries. But also don't devalue
these, particularly if you are unable to replace them with any other
connections;
·
pets;
·
social
snacks – these are tangible reminders of what we have done.
They could be photos or awards or objects of significance;
·
self
narrative - in particular, for those who have their literacy
skills, in this climate of technology, the use of Facebook, online groups,
blogs or their own websites.
These 6 elements can be seen as being as highly
relevant to all members of our community.
Now, think about the people in your world - how socially
connected are they?
How can social connectedness be developed, to
improve the persons sense of well being?
Talk to Cathy about how you can use Social Connections to improve
communication and well being for the people you support in the community.
Cathy
Cathy Basterfield
Speech Pathologist
Access Easy English
0466 579 855
