By Vicki de Klerk-Rubin
There are many thoughtful, effective methods available for supporting individuals living with neurocognitive decline (NCD) and their care partners. Each one adds value, offering tools to help navigate the challenges of caregiving. However, no single method can meet every need in every situation. That’s why it’s essential to explore and integrate what works best.
Still, among the many, the Validation method stands apart.
Validation training does not merely inform—it transforms. Rooted in empathy, emotional connection, and respect for the lived experiences of disoriented older adults, Validation offers something exceptional—a depth of understanding and a rigor of training that impacts both the caregiver and the cared-for. Through active, ongoing practice, reflection, mentorship, and emotional development, caregivers are empowered to connect meaningfully, respond with empathy, and alleviate stress.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes it different:
1. Builds Emotional Intelligence and Emotional Truth—Not Just Knowledge
Where some approaches focus on correcting disorientation, redirecting, or distracting, Validation teaches us to enter the emotional world of disoriented older adults. Their feelings are real, even when their words don’t align with present-day facts. “If it feels real to them, it is real.” This is the essence of Validation. Behaviors such as repetitive questions, inquiring about long-deceased loved ones, or the desire to « go home » are not random; they are expressions of unresolved emotional needs. Validation does not seek to stop these behaviors; instead, it aims to understand what lies beneath them.
Caregivers are encouraged to center themselves for their own well-being first—by breathing, practicing mindfulness, and being present—before empathizing with others. This approach transcends a simple technique; it embodies self-care in action. By doing so, caregivers can remain emotionally available, grounded, and genuinely ready to connect with those they support.
2. Built on the Principles of Adult Education (Andragogy)
Rooted in practice, not just theory, Validation training does not just deliver content; it honors how adults genuinely learn. It is experiential, practical, and connected to the learners’ life experiences. Skills are not only demonstrated—they are practiced, coached, and refined.
Learners are seen as active partners, not passive recipients of information. Our trainers embrace the role of “guides on the side, rather than sages on the stage” (Alison King, 1993), creating a collaborative environment where experience and insight are valued. Whether you’re new to caregiving or a seasoned professional, your wisdom is respected, affirmed, and woven into the learning process.
The outcome? You’ll experience deeper learning, build greater confidence, and develop skills that last a lifetime! Our Level 1 Validation Worker training is the gold standard for communicating with disoriented older adults—and it truly lives up to that reputation!
3. Connection and Communication
At its core, Validation is about creating heart-to-heart human connection. This method fosters a relationship where the older adult feels seen, heard, and respected while the caregiver experiences reduced stress and greater joy in their work. Such mutual benefit is rare.
Many other approaches offer valuable techniques:
- Montessori Method focuses on cognitive stimulation through task-based activities but may overlook the caregiver’s emotional experience.
- Best Friends™ Approach draws on life history to connect but does not always address deep emotional needs.
- Programs like AGE-u-cate provide touch-based calming techniques yet offer limited verbal and emotional tools.
- Dementia Care Mapping is designed more for professional settings and staff evaluation.
- Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care is exceptionally practical but does not explore emotional processing as deeply.
- The Senses Framework provides a relational care philosophy but can be harder to implement in daily routines.
| Approach | Primary Focus | Unique for Caregivers |
| Validation (Naomi Feil) | Emotional truth, empathy, unresolved issues | Deep emotional connection, listening |
| Montessori for Dementia | Structured tasks, cognitive stimulation | Purposeful engagement, but less emotional focus |
| Best Friends™ Approach | Relationship & life story-based care | Builds connection, but not emotion processing |
| AGE-u-cate | Sensory, touch-based calming | Hands-on soothing, but not verbal validation |
| Dementia Care Mapping (DCM) | Observational assessment for staff quality | Not designed for family use; more institutional |
| VIPS | Values-based framework for professional care | Abstract principles, not always practical at home |
| Positive Approach to Care (Teepa Snow) | Practical engagement, role-based tools | Great techniques, but less depth on emotional needs |
| Senses Framework (Michael Nolan) | Relationship-centered care for all involved | Strong in theory, less in day-to-day emotional tools |
| Humanitude | Gentle care using eye contact, touch, and presence | Focuses on dignity and human connection through sensory interaction |
4. Works One-to-One and in Groups
Unlike most other methods, Validation was born in a group therapy setting and evolved to include individual communication techniques.
In Level 1, caregivers learn to connect with individuals. In Level 2, they develop the ability to lead small groups of disoriented older adults by building connections, fostering peer relationships, and creating a safe space for emotional expression. This dual focus—on the individual and the group—is rare and incredibly powerful.
5. Reaches Both Verbal and Nonverbal Older Adults: “I see you,” even When Words have Faded
Validation techniques do not depend on logic or memory. Instead, they focus on accessible tools: tone, body language, mirroring, rephrasing, music, and touch. For those who are verbal, there are respectful ways to reframe and reflect their words. For those who are nonverbal, there are methods to connect without language—through singing, gentle touch, or simply being present with empathy.
6. No Other Method Offers All of This—Together
Validation brings it all together. The training involves more than just a set of skills. It represents a way of connecting with disoriented older adults. This approach integrates emotional intelligence, evidence-based techniques, practical tools, a framework for connection, principles of adult learning, and profound respect for human dignity.
It provides caregivers with the tools to interpret behaviors as meaningful communication, care for themselves emotionally, and build authentic relationships grounded in empathy—not merely efficiency.
That’s what makes Validation so different—and so needed.