My Dad and Me: part 2
I was inspired to learn the DAWN Method because my heart suffered as I watched my dad’s mom, my beloved grandmother, go through her life-depleting journey to end-of-life without dementia specialist care.
Creating Rich Sensory and Social Experiences for Those Experiencing Dementia pt 10: Embracing Whimsy and Fun
At Better People Care, we encourage whimsy and pure fun, often inspired by the creativity of our caregivers. Try something spontaneous—go bowling, take a bike ride, or make it a tradition to get ice cream every week during the summer. (If you’re lactose intolerant, treat yourself to a refreshing drink so you can enjoy something together.)
She Deserves To Be Honored
Our friend deserves to be honored for her time on this earth and her journey through dementia. Our friend's time on earth was a precious gift to many, including us. She was not just a loving wife and mom, but also a vibrant kindergarten teacher, a devoted sister and daughter, and a beloved friend. She brought a special brightness into…
Enjoy Family Photos Together
Creating Rich Sensory and Social Experiences for Those Experiencing Dementia Part 9: Enjoy family photos (and videos) together. The goal is to enjoy something interesting together, which does not mean this becomes an exercise in testing our loved one's memory. Instead, look at photos together to simply enjoy what each photo contains: pictures of pretty dresses, funny hairdos, nice colors,…
My Dad and Me: part 1
When I began learning The DAWN Method, I had no idea it would become so personal. As some of you may know, my dad is experiencing advancing dementia. In the past seven years, I have had the privilege of bringing DAWN Dementia Specialist Care, coaching, and training for families, communities, and professionals. Wow! What a privilege to bring the message…
The Art of Noticing
Creating Rich Sensory and Social Experiences for Those Experiencing Dementia - Part 8: Noticing As we continue to explore options for creating sensory and social experiences for our loved ones experiencing dementia, let's get back to the art of noticing. If your loved one was a pilot or farmer, they probably have spent most of their lives noticing the clouds.…
Sensory and Social Experiences: Embracing New Possibilities
Today, we look at Part 7 of our series Creating Rich Sensory and Social Experiences for Those Experiencing Dementia: Embracing New Possibilities When caring for a loved one with dementia, it's important to keep an open mind. Even if they never enjoyed certain activities in the past, their intuitive skills remain intact, allowing us to bring rich experiences to them…
Sensory and Social Experiences: Music
Music has a unique way of connecting us, especially for those experiencing dementia. Play the music your loved one cherished in their youth or young adulthood. You’ll likely see them smile, tap their foot, or even sing along.
Creating Rich Sensory Experiences: Books
Books can be a delightful way to foster shared sensory and social experiences with your loved one experiencing dementia. Two ideas include shopping with your loved one at a bookstore or visiting your local library to browse books with topics you know they will enjoy!
Sensory and Social Stimulation Ideas: A Scenic Drive
Take a drive through the heart of your hometown while you point out the places you have memories with them. Maybe it is where you’ve enjoyed a meal, gone shopping, or shared a funny memory. Use this drive to reminisce with your loved one and also to point out the new and interesting changes happening in your hometown.