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Bereavement: helping a patient with a learning disability to cope
1Old Hall, Nottinghamshire NHS Trust.
Nursing Times
|February 21, 2003
Summary
This case study highlights how a multidisciplinary team and a life event book aided a man with a moderate learning disability and bipolar disorder in processing grief and preparing for future bereavements.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Learning Disabilities
Background:
- A 55-year-old man with moderate learning disability and bipolar disorder experienced delayed grief.
- The patient's father died suddenly, and the funeral occurred without his prior knowledge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the intervention and outcomes for a patient experiencing bereavement difficulties.
- To illustrate the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary approach in managing grief in individuals with learning disabilities.
Main Methods:
- A multidisciplinary team was involved in the patient's care.
- A 'life event book' was utilized as a therapeutic tool.
- The intervention focused on processing past bereavement and preparing for future loss.
Main Results:
- The patient gradually came to terms with his father's death.
- Interventions reduced agitation and distress related to the mention of death.
- A strategy was developed to help the patient prepare for future family bereavements.
Conclusions:
- Multidisciplinary teamwork and specific tools like life event books are effective in managing grief in patients with moderate learning disabilities.
- Addressing delayed grief is crucial for improving the mental well-being of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Proactive strategies can enhance resilience in individuals facing future bereavements.