I realized not long ago how the work I do now, using the DAWN Method to maximize the lives of my companions experiencing dementia, is the purest version of Occupational Therapy I’ve practiced in my extensive career.
Occupational therapy is the art and science of “participation,” a crucial tool in helping individuals fully engage in the “occupations (activities, tasks, jobs, hobbies, etc.)” that hold the most significance for them, especially following illness or injury.
With my help, my dad and I go to his church men’s group each week. He is aware that his participation is less than it used to be (he has very little anosognosia, but we walk away from his men’s group with him having a sense of having done what is “normal.”) He keeps going to the men’s group because he feels a sense of value in being there for the fellow US Marine he always sits beside. The DAWN Method highlights how we can give someone experiencing dementia the ability to continue to feel value for what they have to offer to someone else. Going to a men’s group for the benefit of his friend and fellow US Marine helps my dad feel valued and helps him participate in what matters. What an honor I have to help make my dad’s participation possible!
Dementia care using the DAWN Method is a pure reflection of what occupational therapy at its best.