The Right Type of Care
when we get care right — the right type, the right amounts, at the right time — people, even those experiencing advanced dementia, can often live well in their own homes.
Society’s View of Elders
Sharing a few thoughts about how our society approaches dementia and elderhood. The DAWN method taught me how to help honor these people and preserve their dignity and independence. I’d love to help you learn this too! https://www.instagram.com/p/C5q8G5iuat8
Three practical tips for your companions with dementia.
When approaching a shower, I’d recommend:- Get the bathroom nice and warm for them.- Have multiple bath towels ready so that you can help them keep warm while drying off.- Additionally, it is easier to help dry off with a smaller hand towel vs a larger bath towel. https://www.instagram.com/p/C5RTpa5u1aq
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:…
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.
“You Showed ‘Em”
In our years of bringing her DAWN Dementia Specialist care, we skillfully and respectfully built the right kind of care, care that she would accept and come to value. It was a process, as anosognosia required delicate skill while we worked to preserve her strong sense of independence and autonomy.
Christmas and Dementia
What do you get for Christmas for someone experiencing dementia? Let me provide a few ideas.
Encouragement and a Challenge for Today’s Society.
We have the ability to make a difference by simply noticing, taking time for, and genuinely engaging with our companions who are older or those who are experiencing dementia.