In the moderate stage of dementia, people often remain aware of what’s happening both around them and within them. They may feel the loss of ability, sense their limitations, and wrestle with the tension between what they once could do and what they now struggle to manage. This awareness brings emotional pain, fear, frustration, and confusion—not just symptoms but…
Leading a long-term care or assisted living organization—especially one supporting people with dementia—means balancing mission with metrics. While quality care is the goal, success is measured through hard Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Yet beneath those numbers lie persistent, complex challenges that drain leadership energy, strain resources, and impact the overall care experience. Below are some pressing pain points faced…
This is a great example of how operational logistics intersect with resident experience—and how a Montessori-informed approach can turn moments of potential disruption into moments of dignity, purpose and calm. The Issue Residents become restless in the dining room before meals due to delays caused by kitchen distance and staggered food delivery. Some residents wander or display responsive behaviors…
As the needs of people living with dementia grow more complex, long-term care homes and memory support communities continue to search for methods that go beyond routine care and compliance. A new systematic review confirms broad benefits in residential aged care and compelling evidence that Montessori-based programs can deliver. The goal? Engaged residents Empowered staff Dignified, person-directed support. A…
Comfort Without Regression: Rethinking Doll Use in Dementia Care – In some dementia care settings, it’s not unusual to see residents cuddling dolls, or even being guided into changing and feeding them. Some facilities have gone so far as to create “nurseries” filled with cribs and baby dolls. While these scenes may appear comforting at first glance, they stand…
In dementia care, it’s easy to fall into the habit of filling time. We offer activities, we entertain, we redirect. But in Montessori-based care, we do something different — and far more powerful: we create real roles. Not “just for fun.” Not “just to stay busy.” Real roles are ongoing, meaningful, and visible. They mirror the kind of responsibilities…
Serif vs. Sans-Serif Fonts: Why Font Choice Matters in Dementia Care When we communicate with people living with dementia, every detail counts — even the font we choose. The shape of letters, the spacing between words, and the overall clarity of printed materials can impact whether a message is helpful or frustrating. If you’re creating signage, labels, visual cues,…
Dining rooms are emotional centers in dementia care so it’s important that we follow some resident dining room standards. Are yours honoring dignity or causing distress? Mealtimes Matter More Than We Think In dementia care settings, mealtimes are not just about nutrition — they are powerful emotional hubs. They are moments where dignity, connection, and comfort should come together…
Here are the 9 Dimensions of Human Well-Being in Dementia… Physical –Supporting comfort, mobility, and bodily health to help the person feel at ease in their body. Safety –Creating an environment where the person feels secure, protected, and free from harm or confusion. Spiritual –Honoring the person’s beliefs, values, or sense of purpose to foster peace and inner strength….
Addressing Pain Points and Exploring Solutions : Staff, Rules & Money The biggest pain points for management and executives of Long-Term Care (LTC) residences typically revolve around the following key areas: staff, rules and money: Staffing Shortages & Retention High turnover rates among caregivers and nurses lead to constant rehiring and training costs. Burnout & stress among staff due to…
In the moderate stage of dementia, people often remain aware of what’s happening both…
Leading a long-term care or assisted living organization—especially one supporting people with dementia—means balancing…
