[Magdalen] Camille's Dementia

[Roger Stokes]

On 02/11/2015 22:25, Allan Carr wrote:
> Camille attends a day care center where she's much appreciated by the staff
> because she's lively, fun, and adds a lot to the group. However, she's also
> playfully physical and can, playfully, show a fist or even, playfully, slap someone on the head or rear.
>
> Some people are objecting to this, which I understand because I'm
> uncomfortable when Camille directs it to me. Things came to a head when one
> participant reported to her daughter that Camille punched her and the
> daughter complained to the center. The class supervisor emphatically told
> me, when I inquired, that this punch was not meant in earnest, but I'm
> bothered that it happened.
>
> After a discussion with the group leader, i was surprised that Camille was
> still welcome. She went today, but now I'm wondering about personal
> liability. I could, i suppose, limit the day care class to just mornings
> and send our caregiver to sort of guard her, but I'm not sure that would be
> effective. I also would miss having my breakfast and lunch prepared for me at home.

I am not a lawyer and I understand why you are concerned about any 
potential liability as a result of Camille's actions.  That said I would 
expect the Center to have some sort of liability insurance, particularly 
as they may well have come across similar clients in the past.  You 
could consider mentioning this concern to the group leader and seek 
reassurance from them.

There is also the question of how Camille's condition would affect any 
potenential liability if action were taken against her.  Could she be 
held responsible for the effect of her actions?  I would also not limit 
her attendance or have the caregiver go with her.  The caregiver 
ensuring you get a becebt meal prepared for you, and anything else she 
does while Camille is out, is part of the care for you that helps you 
provide the support you offer Camille at other times.

Roger