Which behavioral changes should paid feeding assistants be trained to recognize in residents?

Paid feeding assistants play a crucial role in the care of residents, particularly in recognizing behavioral changes that may indicate underlying concerns. Being adept at identifying changes that are inconsistent with a resident's normal behavior is key to ensuring their well-being and safety.

When behavioral changes deviate from what is typically observed for an individual, it could signal various issues such as health problems, discomfort, or potential emotional distress. Recognizing these inconsistencies allows feeding assistants to alert healthcare professionals, who can then investigate further or take appropriate action. This monitoring is critical, especially in environments where residents may struggle with communication due to cognitive impairments or physical limitations.

While changes consistent with normal behavior, medication effects, and those caused by emotional stress are important to consider, they do not carry the same immediate implications for intervention as behaviors that stand out as abnormal for a specific resident. Recognizing and addressing significant changes can help prevent complications and promote better health outcomes for the residents they serve.