Why Understanding ‘Why’ Matters- In Alzheimer’s and dementia care understanding the “why” behind behaviors is not just important—it’s transformative. Here’s why understanding ‘why’ matters: Whether you’re a caregiver on the front lines, a manager coordinating staff, or an owner overseeing operations, this insight forms the foundation of compassionate, effective, and sustainable care. Responsive behaviors like agitation, aggression, or withdrawal…
Using common coping mechanisms to handle responsive challenges – When caregivers are overworked, tired, stressed and, possibly, untrained their responses to responsive behaviors from individuals in their care may not be ideal. That doesn’t mean they don’t mean well, but they may have difficulty applying the right strategies. Here are some common coping mechanisms they may use to handle…
Repetition: A Foundational Tool in Learning – Repetition is a foundational tool in learning, and this principle is especially valuable in dementia care. For individuals with dementia, the act of repeating certain activities and routines goes beyond mere habit; it plays a critical role in helping them maintain their remaining abilities and, in some cases, even relearn skills that…
Dementia Training Using the Adapted Montessori Approach – The integration of Montessori methods into dementia care, and dementia training, represents a pioneering approach to enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with dementia. This approach leverages principles originally designed for educational settings, particularly for children, and adapts them to the needs of adults experiencing cognitive decline. When applied…
Happier Residents, Happier Homes – Key Benefits of Non-Drug Approaches in Long-Term Care Homes – The core philosophy behind non-drug approaches is that people with dementia can still experience joy, purpose, and dignity when they are treated as individuals with unique needs and capabilities. When long-term care homes shift focus from managing behaviors with medications to engaging residents in…
Why Life History Matters: Understanding the ‘Why’ Behind the Actions of Individuals with Dementia Caring for individuals with dementia involves much more than addressing immediate medical needs. While medications and therapies play crucial roles in managing symptoms, understanding the deeper, personal histories of those with dementia can unlock meaningful and compassionate care. For caregivers—whether professional or family—it’s essential to…
Addressing the Misconception about the Adapted Montessori Method: Are We Treating Older Adults as Children? One potential concern when discussing the application of Montessori principles to dementia care is the perception that leads to the question: are we treating older adults as children? This misunderstanding can arise from a superficial comparison of the methods used in Montessori education for…
Why Montessori Teachers for Children Should Learn About the Adapted Montessori Method for Older People with Dementia: Montessori Transcends Age – Montessori education, renowned for its child-centric approach, has long been celebrated for fostering independence, curiosity, and a love for learning in children. Montessori transcends age and this same philosophy has been adapted to create a transformative approach to…
Adapted Montessori – A Social Prescription – A social prescription is a way for healthcare professionals, such as doctors or nurses, to refer patients to non-medical services or activities that can improve their health and well-being. Instead of – or in addition to – prescribing medication, a healthcare provider might “prescribe” participation in community-based activities or services that address…
The Power of Music: Connecting with Elderly Individuals with Dementia Music has a profound ability to evoke emotions and memories, a power that extends to individuals living with dementia. As dementia advances, cognitive functions may decline, but music can often cut through the haze of memory loss, bringing moments of clarity, joy, and connection. In North America, where the…
Understanding Fear and Paranoia in People Living with Dementia – Fear and paranoia in…
Case for Environmental Changes Benefiting All Residents in a Senior Residence – Environmental changes…
