Stories from the Airplane
Just like the child in the story, our companions with dementia would still feel the popping in their ears, but because of their changing cognitive skills, they may not be able to interpret what they are feeling correctly.
Thank You For Your Service, Dear Girl
She served in the U.S. military before it was cool for women to serve in the military. She chose to be a vegetarian before that trend became trendy. She held onto her vibrant personality, zest for life, and active lifestyle as long as she could. She was known to hula hoop, just a few months before she drew her last…
Continuing the Conversation: Dignity of Effort
Recently, I spoke about the dignity of effort and I want to continue that conversation. There are certainly times when our companions will need our help. But HOW we step in to help is very important! We can still preserve their dignity while helping them. Check out the video for more on this. https://www.instagram.com/p/C4YUa8Hut0-/
Dignity of Effort
Remember the concept of dignity of effort! Don’t be too quick to rush in if your companion who is older or has dementia is struggling to do something that was once easy for them. Allow them to use their own effort first. There is dignity to use one's own effort and ability to accomplish tasks. See the video for more:…
Stories Over Stress
Stories are so important. By remembering the stories my companions share, I can bring them joy and richness when they no longer remember, and I can share these stories with them. Sharing stories lowers stress for my companions. I can also accomplish this by sharing stories I’ve seen, read about, or encountered in my day. Check out the video for…
Farewell, Friend
We had the privilege of living a bit of our lives alongside him, and we will miss those times. It was an honor to help him live well and finish well.
Shoutout to Origin Healthcare
Origins healthcare providers are professional, prompt, relate well to our companions, and clearly understand excellence in healthcare. What a gift.
Laughing…It’s Good For All of Us
You see, just because someone's cognitive skills change due to dementia does not mean that they no longer enjoy humor. People enjoy laughing and sharing laughter with others. The issue is that they will need someone who knows how to draw them into enjoying humor, someone who understands that humor can bring smiles and laughs…for everyone.
Keeping Track of Time
Keeping track of the days of the week and the months of the year can be very important for some folks experiencing dementia. They might need our support in helping them feel like they are indeed keeping track.
Tolerance and Expectations
In a society that is so intent on creating tolerance and understanding we have yet to do so with those who are experiencing cognitive changes.