The world thinks so much of what people experiencing dementia can't do. But in my world, we focus on what they CAN do! They often just need a companion who understands how to leverage the skills they keep to continue to meet their emotional needs. Our companions are living wonderful lives because of the skills we've learned through the DAWN…
This time of year, many families ask me if they should decorate their loved one’s home if they are experiencing dementia. My advice is it’s best to follow their lead. Check out the video for more! https://www.instagram.com/p/DR7qUSEgn4L/
Loss isn't the whole story. Sometimes we can get stuck focusing on the loss in Dementia (the loss of cognitive function), but there are so many strengths we should notice too! The DAWN Method taught me how to switch that perspective to lean into the strengths of our friends experiencing Dementia. https://www.instagram.com/p/DRSaHFlCa8S/
Our companions experiencing dementia will let us know what they need by what they say and do. If we pay attention and listen well, we can glean valuable clues from them. This is a brief story of how I applied what I’ve learned through the DAWN method to adapt my approach to meeting the needs of my companion. https://www.instagram.com/p/DRA1QpoCKc4/
We can still have intelligent and meaningful conversations with our companions experiencing dementia. In the video, I’m sharing how the DAWN method has guided me. It has taught me how to set up situations where they feel comfortable and safe, creating an environment for intentional conversation with our loved ones. https://www.instagram.com/p/DQ4cwPIAe1h/
Family and friends often challenge the memory of their companion experiencing dementia symptoms. They want to ask them questions to stimulate their memory, but for someone experiencing the symptoms of dementia, these types of challenges are no longer helpful. I encourage you to learn the The Dawn Method - a way to create a lower-stress environment where these individuals can…
We called him Mr. Charming. Even in his last days, he would have moments where he would stop and compliment someone on their pretty sweater or nice shirt, with his sideways smile and attentive eyes. He loved to share stories about his days as a Colorado A&M University football player and his time with the National Forest Service. He was…
I knew that when I entered my friend’s door, I would need to sit, face her so that when she looked my way, our eyes would meet, and patiently and attentively listen. I knew that my response would have to feel to her as if I agreed with her negative comments about her son. She needed validation, empathy, and for…
His was a true Horatio Alger story. From the wilds of Wyoming as a child and youth, to the opportunities available in Northern Colorado, he embraced hard work and built something impressive. And yet, he was humble and kind. He became a leader and a man of service, donating time and resources to community causes he believed in. When we…
While I have many years of experience in providing DAWN Method Dementia Care, I am reminded again that I am not the expert when it comes to my companion's personal life/family! It is important that we listen well to our companions experiencing dementia and work with their family members to adjust what is needed to provide the best care and…
