Improving Caregiver Empathy

Objectives: Define the difference between empathy and sympathy. Describe the importance of empathy for caregivers. Understand when it is difficult for caregivers to empathize with clients. Use strategies for showing empathy with clients.

Description: This class introduces the concept of empathy and its importance when providing care to older adults. Participants will identify common situations that make it challenging to be empathetic, and review techniques to help build an empathetic approach. Participants will be able to describe the benefits of practicing empathy for both the client and the caregiver.