I work in a rehab facility and care for up to 15 residents at a time. I treat them all with the same amount of attention as deemed appropriate but have had situations where the resident expresses that they are absolutely in love with me and have even tried to give me expensive gifts to prove it. I did not accept the gifts of course but they are persistant in expressing said love. what should I do to discourage this behavior without sending them into a deep depression or making them feel embarrassed or uncared about. I don't want them to become hateful towards me but that is the reaction that I feel will come and that would hinder my ability to provide quality care for them in this care facility.
Then they would continue on with therapy. If the resident persisted, they would ask them to concentrate on therapy. If the person kept on, they would get someone else to take over or end or reschedule the session.
I only saw the events that happened in a public setting, like an open therapy room or in the dining room. I don't know what they did if it happened in the resident's room in private.
Because some of the people in the facility had memory or cognitive problems, the therapists took it in stride when it happened over and over. It probably made them uncomfortable, but they dealt with it in a cheerful, respectful manner. Over and over again.
You're a wonderful person for taking care of people. Thanks!
Second, it might help to say you are *not allowed* to do whatever is requested, such as accept gifts or get too close. This shifts the heat to an authority figure who might threaten your job.
What you're going through of course is an occupational hazard and certainly nothing new. But be sure to protect yourself in the process. Good luck.
My approach would be twofold. If dealing with a dementia patient, I would just smile, give them a friendly pat, say something like: Oh, you're so sweet to say that; l love you too (sisterly, motherly, etc.).
If non-memory impaired, I would do the above, without the friendly pat, and just drop in LOTS of comments about my spouse or significant other, whether or not you have one. All the things you do together, the plans you have, etc. IMO, this is the kindest way to let them know you're not available. You probably will never need to address it directly, hurt anyone's feelings or make anyone angry.