Strength-Based Care

Our companions with dementia have lost some significant cognitive skills, but we can set the environment up to accommodate those losses and support their strengths. For example, one of my companions has a very important cognitive strength that he gets to live out with our help. He gets to enjoy the beauty of his life and specifically his backyard and…

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Adapting to Changes

A quick story about how what I learned with the DAWN method has helped me better understand the actions of my companions with dementia. What I have learned allows me to suggest things that improve their quality of life and adapt to their changing cognitive state.  https://www.instagram.com/p/Ctjqva5gNZl/

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Preserving Dignity

The DAWN method taught me the sacred balance between safety and selfhood. I am so grateful to Judy Cornish and all that I have learned. In my experience with my companions with dementia, I have learned first-hand that full-time care is not always the answer. I have seen how the right care, in the right amounts, at the right time,…

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A Word to Medical Providers

Pause before you recommend a level of care for people living in their own homes or recommend a care facility. The reality of how someone functions in their own home may not always be clear in your short interaction. The DAWN method is a functional way to assess a person’s need for care and what level of care they need.…

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Honoring A Good Man

“Thank you for your service, Sir.”  He served in the United States Army, as a Field Artillery soldier.  And he served for decades in the Colorado Parks and Wildlife, helping preserve wildlife and wild lands for people to enjoy for generations to come.   In his later years, he took up painting and was good at it, too.  He continued riding…

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Why the DAWN Method Works

People who watch us interact with their loved ones can sometimes be surprised by how peaceful our interactions are. It looks peaceful because it is! The DAWN method taught us how to create a situation in which our companions feel safe and secure and in which we can bring well-being into their lives.  If you want to learn more about…

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