On Christmas Eve, the world bid farewell to a remarkable individual who touched the lives of countless disoriented older adults. Naomi Feil, the esteemed developer of the Validation method for communicating with elderly individuals, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 in her home in Jasper, Oregon. As we honor her memory, let us reflect on her profound contributions and the legacy she leaves behind.
A Life of Empathy and Innovation
Naomi Feil, born as Gisela Noemi Weil in Munich in 1932, carried with her a heart brimming with compassion and a determination to make a difference. The daughter of Julius and Helen Weil (nee Kahn), she embarked on a path that would revolutionize elderly care and communication.
Mrs. Feil’s journey led her from Oberlin College to Western Reserve University (now Case Western Reserve University), where she continued to nurture her passion for helping others. She later obtained a Master of Social Work degree from Columbia University, equipping herself with the knowledge and skills necessary to effect change in the lives of disoriented older adults.
Pioneering the Validation Method
In 1960, Naomi Feil made Cleveland her home, a city that would serve as the birthplace of her groundbreaking work. It was here that she married Edward Feil, a filmmaker, and embarked on a collaborative journey that would forever change the landscape of elderly care.
Their partnership gave rise to the book “Validation, the Feil Method” in 1982, a pivotal work that challenged traditional approaches to care for older adults. Mrs. Feil passionately advocated for an end to reality orientation, diversion, and the use of lies in elderly care. Her subsequent book, “The Validation Breakthrough,” further solidified her commitment to empowering disoriented older adults with empathy and understanding.
Naomi and Ed’s creative endeavors extended beyond the written word. They crafted powerful films, with Mrs. Feil often taking on acting roles, including their renowned masterpiece, “The Inner World of Aphasia.” Recognized for its cultural significance, this film was added to the National Film Registry in 2015, a testament to the impact of their work on America’s film heritage.
The Godmother of Person-Centered Care
Naomi Feil’s influence in the field of elderly care is immeasurable. Often referred to as the “Godmother” of person-centered care, her books and thousands of workshops spanning the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East carried her message across borders and languages. She illuminated the notion that behind the behavior of disoriented older adults lies a profound reason, and empathy is the key to accompanying them through their final stage of life.
In 1982, Mrs. Feil established the Validation Training Center, where she served as director until 2014. Today, there are 24 Validation training centers spanning 14 countries, offering services in 11 different languages. Over 9,000 individuals have become certified in the Validation method, positively impacting the lives of hundreds of thousands of older adults worldwide across more than 10,000 dementia care institutions.
Preserving a Legacy
Naomi Feil’s life’s work will continue to thrive through the Validation Training Institute, ensuring that her pioneering approach to elderly care endures. Furthermore, her invaluable film contributions are carefully preserved at Indiana University’s Moving Image Archive, allowing future generations to witness the profound impact of her storytelling.
FAQs
What was the cause of Naomi Feil’s death?
Naomi Feil passed away peacefully at her home in Jasper, Oregon. While the specific cause of her death has not been disclosed, we remember her for the profound impact she made during her lifetime.
How can I pay tribute to Naomi Feil’s memory?
To honor Naomi Feil’s memory and continue supporting the Validation method, contributions in her name can be made to the Validation Training Institute.
Conclusion
Naomi Feil’s unwavering dedication to elevating the lives of disoriented older adults leaves an indelible mark on the world. Her Validation method will continue to guide caregivers, bringing empathy and understanding to the forefront of elderly care practices. Let us remember Naomi Feil for her compassion, innovation, and the transformative impact she had on the lives of countless individuals. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
