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…
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.…
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…
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.
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!
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.
Creating Rich Sensory and Social Experiences for Those Experiencing Dementia Part 3: Life-Changing Experiences As you begin to share these rich and engaging experiences with your loved one, take note of how the experiences impact you as well. You might be surprised at the positive effects on your own mood and stress levels. Getting good at this is part of…
Discovering beauty, interest, and meaning together with your companion experiencing dementia.
Creating the right activities for your loved one with dementia involves understanding their social preferences and incorporating sensory elements to enhance their experience. By doing so, you can help them lead a more fulfilling and engaging life.
We are big believers in the dignity of risk because our older companions and those with dementia have taught and shown us that living fully includes risk, and every one of them is good with that truth.
