Community Collaboration Failure to Thrive (FTT) in Elderly Clients Causes Malnutrition Depression and dementing illnesses Age-related changes Inadequate support system Attributes Problems in social relatedness Physical/cognitive dysfunction Feelings of exclusion, shame, helplessness and worthlessness Loneliness Giving up

Community Collaboration What will help? Reminiscing Create opportunities for elderly to share their stories and become socially involved School mentoring program Support groups at churches with others in their demographic Day Care To improve social interaction and increase activity Work with organizations such as People Inc. and Aurora Adult Day Services to be sure that they are reaching the population and meeting these specific needs Art therapy, exercise, nutritious meals

Community Collaboration Validation Therapy Acknowledging the person’s feelings as valid to restore dignity Restore self-worth, reduce stress and justify living Work with health care agencies and eldercare programs to educate them and train them to use validation therapy in their programs Family system